Physical activity and diabetes

ABSTRACT

The incidence of diabetes continues to increase in the Caribbean due to many contributing factors, but the most significant factors are directly linked to prevalence of sedentry lifestyle, diet and obesity. In this issue of Nayam News we will explore why it is so important to practise a healthy lifestyle through physical activity to prevent or control diabetes. The benefits of physical activity are greates in the early stages of the disease. In fact, studies have shown that exercise and healthy diet can prevent the development of type 2 diabetes in people with Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT). IGT, often referred to as pre-diabetes is a condition that is developed prior to type 2 diabetes. The problem with IGT and type 2 diabetes is that many people display on symptoms, and are therefore unaware that they are living with the condition. Large population-based studies in several developed countries suggest that moderate reduction in weight and walking wach day for half an hour, reduces the incidence of diabetes more than half in overweight individuals. Thus, regular physical activity is a primary prevention measure for individuals who may be susceptible to the condition.