Diabetes and Exercise
Chapter from the book:
Mutlu,
T.
O.
&
Kaya,
E.
&
Bingöl,
E.
(eds.)
2024.
Academic Research and Evaluations in the Field of Sports Sciences VIII.
Synopsis
Diabetes is a rapidly spreading health problem worldwide, and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in particular is directly related to lifestyle changes, obesity, and low physical activity. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, diabetes affects 463 million adults worldwide, and this number is expected to reach 700 million by 2045. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that usually begins at a young age and causes the pancreas to lose its ability to produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which insulin resistance increases and the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is usually associated with excess weight, a sedentary lifestyle, and genetic factors. Exercise plays an important role in diabetes management and improves blood sugar control in individuals with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week is recommended for diabetic patients. Patients should be encouraged to increase their physical activity with 30-60 minutes of exercise, 3-4 days a week. Exercise helps with weight control, improves cardiovascular health, and reduces stress levels. As a result, exercise is a key component of diabetes management and can significantly improve the quality of life of people with diabetes as part of a healthy lifestyle.