The complex relationship between physical activity and diabetes: an overview

Author(s):  
Stefano Palermi ◽  
Olimpia Iacono ◽  
Felice Sirico ◽  
Michele Modestino ◽  
Carlo Ruosi ◽  
...  

Abstract Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a widespread condition, representing a challenging disease to manage. Exercise is being increasingly recommended as part of the therapeutic regimen for DM but the management of different forms of physical activity is difficult for individuals with diabetes, trainers, and physicians. Regular exercise can improve health and well-being, helping individuals to achieve their target lipid profile, body composition, cardio-respiratory fitness, and glycemic goals. People with diabetes tend to be as inactive as the general population, with a large percentage of individuals not achieving the minimum amount of recommended physical activity levels. Indeed, several barriers to exercise exist for persons with diabetes, including sports eligibility, multi-modality management of diabetic athletes, and inadequate knowledge about adequate type and intensity of exercise. The aim of the present review is to provide the current understanding of mechanisms, recommendations, and beneficial effects of different modalities of exercise for the treatment of DM.

Author(s):  
Mark Hargreaves

Since ancient times, the health benefits of regular physical activity/exercise have been recognised and the classic studies of Morris and Paffenbarger provided the epidemiological evidence in support of such an association. Cardiorespiratory fitness, often measured by maximal oxygen uptake, and habitual physical activity levels are inversely related to mortality. Thus, studies exploring the biological bases of the health benefits of exercise have largely focused on the cardiovascular system and skeletal muscle (mass and metabolism), although there is increasing evidence that multiple tissues and organ systems are influenced by regular exercise. Communication between contracting skeletal muscle and multiple organs has been implicated in exercise benefits, as indeed has other inter-organ "cross-talk". The application of molecular biology techniques and 'omics' approaches to questions in exercise biology has opened new lines of investigation to better understand the beneficial effects of exercise and, in so doing, inform the optimisation of exercise regimens and the identification of novel therapeutic strategies to enhance health and well-being.


Author(s):  
Jennie A. Petersen ◽  
Calli Naish ◽  
Dalia Ghoneim ◽  
Jason L. Cabaj ◽  
Patricia K. Doyle-Baker ◽  
...  

Public health measures introduced to combat the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted the physical activity, health, and well-being of millions of people. This grounded theory study explored how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected physical activity and perceptions of health among adults in a Canadian city (Calgary). Twelve adults (50% females; 20–70 years) were interviewed between June and October (2020) via telephone or videoconferencing. Using a maximum variation strategy, participants with a range of sociodemographic characteristics, physical activity levels, and perceptions of seriousness and anxiety related to COVID-19 were selected. Semi-structured interviews captured participant perceptions of how their physical activity and perceptions of health changed during the pandemic. Using thematic analysis, four themes were identified: (1) Disruption to Daily Routines, (2) Changes in Physical Activity, (3) Balancing Health, and (4) Family Life. Participants experienced different degrees of disruption in their daily routines and physical activity based on their individual circumstances (e.g., pre-pandemic physical activity, family life, and access to resources). Although participants faced challenges in modifying their daily routines and physical activity, many adapted. Some participants reported enhanced feelings of well-being. Public health strategies that encourage physical activity and promote health should be supported as they are needed during pandemics, such as COVID-19.


Author(s):  
Nicky Hayes ◽  
Julie Whitney

This chapter addresses the fundamental nursing role in the management of mobility. Every nurse should possess the knowledge and skills to assess mobility needs, to select and implement evidence-based strategies to maintain mobility or assist mobility, and to review the effectiveness of these to inform any necessary changes in care. Mobility is the ability to move around independently. The most readily recognizable component of mobility is locomotion—the ability to walk. It includes transition from one position to another, which is necessary to allow walking to be incorporated into functional activities. Examples of transitions are moving from sitting to standing and from standing to lying down. Virtually all bodily systems are required for safe and effective mobility. Maintaining higher levels of physical activity has been associated with reduced mortality and morbidity from many common diseases (Gregg et al., 2003). People with higher levels of physical activity are less likely to suffer or die from cardiovascular disease (Kesaniemi et al., 2001), have reduced risk of all types of stroke (Wendel-Vos et al., 2004a; 2004b), gain less weight, are less likely to develop type 2 diabetes, breast or colon cancer, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, falls, and depression (Kesaniemi et al., 2001; Thune and Furberg, 2001). Beneficial effects on cognition have also been documented, the most physically active having 20% lower risk of cognitive decline (Weuve et al., 2004; Yaffe et al., 2001). Maintaining good physical activity levels is associated with generalized well-being, and improved physical function, ability to perform activities of daily living, and walking distance. An active person is less likely to be disabled and is more likely to be independent. There is a lower incidence of depression in people who remain active, and physical activity is known to reduce the symptoms of clinical depression (Kesaniemi et al., 2001). For these reasons, it is important for nurses to promote the benefits of appropriate physical activity as part of their health promotion role. The American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association recommends levels of physical activity required to maintain good health (Box 23.1).


2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
C A Borges ◽  
C Kikuta ◽  
P C Jaime

Abstract Background It is necessary to analyze the nutritional profile and advertising claims of ultra-processed foods available in small food retailers. Methods This is an observational cross-sectional study that carried out an audit on small food businesses. Information was collected on advertising, price, ingredient list, nutritional composition and portion size. All investigated foods were grouped according to the NOVA food classification. Food advertising was categorized into 11 different consumer appeals. The relationship between the type of advertising appeal of the ultra-processed food and its nutritional profile was analyzed. A comparison was made between the nutritional composition of the advertised food and the recommendations of sugar, saturated fat and sodium of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Results The most prevalent ultra-processed foods in small retailers were sweets and treats (18.5%); sugary sweetened beverages (15.7%), sausages (12.0%) and baked goods (11.1%). Most of the advertising on the packaging of ultra-processed foods was about healthy eating and physical activity and sensory aspects of the product (color, flavor, texture). Foods classified as high in sugars had the highest number of advertisements related to healthy eating and physical activity, foods high in sugar and saturated fats, had the highest number of advertisements related to sensory aspects, healthy eating and physical activity and foods high in sodium and / or saturated fats, had more advertising related to convenience. Conclusions Identifying that advertising for ultra-processed foods is associated with health and well-being, physical activity and sensory aspects leads us to a better understanding of the factors that influence consumer perception in small businesses. Advertising for foods rich in sugar, saturated fat and sodium based on health and well-being should be better regulated by public agencies in Brazil, supporting consumers to make healthier choices. Key messages Ultra-processed foods induce to consume large quantities, due to the convenience and the advertising present in their packaging that stimulate a healthy life, physical activity and sensory aspects. It is necessary support and defend changes in nutrition labeling, in order to clarify the nutritional information to consumers.


BMJ Open ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (9) ◽  
pp. e016966 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah Thomas ◽  
Louise Fazakarley ◽  
Peter W Thomas ◽  
Sarah Collyer ◽  
Sarah Brenton ◽  
...  

ObjectivesWhile the health and well-being benefits of physical activity are recognised, people with multiple sclerosis (MS) often face greater barriers than the general population. The Nintendo Wii potentially offers a fun, convenient way of overcoming some of these. The aim was to test the feasibility of conducting a definitive trial of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Mii-vitaliSe; a home-based, physiotherapist-supported Nintendo Wii intervention.DesignA single-centre wait-list randomised controlled study.SettingMS service in secondary care.ParticipantsAmbulatory, relatively inactive people with clinically confirmed MS.InterventionThirty participants were randomised to receive Mii-vitaliSe either immediately (for 12 months) or after a 6-month wait (for 6 months). Mii-vitaliSe consisted of two supervised Nintendo Wii familiarisation sessions in the hospital followed by home use (Wii Sports, Sports Resort and Fit Plus software) with physiotherapist support and personalised resources.OutcomesIncluded self-reported physical activity levels, quality of life, mood, self-efficacy, fatigue and assessments of balance, gait, mobility and hand dexterity at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Interviews (n=25) explored participants’ experiences and, at study end, the two Mii-vitaliSe facilitators’ experiences of intervention delivery (main qualitative findings reported separately).ResultsMean (SD) age was 49.3 (8.7) years, 90% female, with 47% diagnosed with MS <6 years ago and 60% new to active gaming. The recruitment rate was 31% (95% CI 20% to 44%). Outcome data were available for 29 (97%) at 6 months and 28 (93%) at 12 months. No serious adverse events were reported during the study. Qualitative data indicated that Mii-vitaliSe was well-received. Mean Wii use across both groups over the initial 6-month intervention period was twice a week for 27 min/day. Mean cost of delivering Mii-vitaliSe was £684 per person.DiscussionMii-vitaliSe appears acceptable and a future trial feasible and warranted. These findings will inform its design.Trial registrationISRCTN49286846


2014 ◽  
Vol 94 (4) ◽  
pp. 499-510 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicole E. Andrews ◽  
Jenny Strong ◽  
Pamela J. Meredith ◽  
Rachel G. D'Arrigo

BackgroundIndividuals with chronic pain consider improved sleep to be one of the most important outcomes of treatment. Physical activity has been shown to have beneficial effects on sleep in the general population. Despite these findings, the physical activity–sleep relationship has not been directly examined in a sample of people with chronic pain.ObjectiveThis study aimed to examine the association between objective daytime physical activity and subsequent objective sleep for individuals with chronic pain while controlling for pain and psychosocial variables.DesignAn observational, prospective, within-person study design was used.MethodsA clinical sample of 50 adults with chronic pain was recruited. Participation involved completing a demographic questionnaire followed by 5 days of data collection. Over this period, participants wore a triaxial accelerometer to monitor their daytime activity and sleep. Participants also carried a handheld computer that administered a questionnaire measuring pain, mood, catastrophizing, and stress 6 times throughout the day.ResultsThe results demonstrated that higher fluctuations in daytime activity significantly predicted shorter sleep duration. Furthermore, higher mean daytime activity levels and a greater number of pain sites contributed significantly to the prediction of longer periods of wakefulness at night.LimitationsThe small sample size used in this study limits the generalizability of the findings. Missing data may have led to overestimations or underestimations of effect sizes, and additional factors that may be associated with sleep (eg, medication usage, environmental factors) were not measured.ConclusionsThe results of this study suggest that engagement in high-intensity activity and high fluctuations in activity are associated with poorer sleep at night; hence, activity modulation may be a key treatment strategy to address sleep complaints in individuals with chronic pain.


2018 ◽  
Vol 6 (12) ◽  
pp. 1-248 ◽  
Author(s):  
Steven Cummins ◽  
Charlotte Clark ◽  
Daniel Lewis ◽  
Neil Smith ◽  
Claire Thompson ◽  
...  

Background There is limited evidence for public health policy-makers on the health impacts of urban regeneration programmes. Objectives To assess whether or not the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and related urban regeneration, were associated with an increase in physical activity and mental health and well-being; to assess whether or not any benefits were sustained over time; and to capture the experiences of residents of the Olympic host boroughs. Design Quasi-experimental prospective cohort study of adolescents and their parents/carers, with a nested qualitative longitudinal study of families. Setting London boroughs of Newham, Barking and Dagenham, Tower Hamlets and Hackney. Participants A cohort of 2254 adolescents in 25 schools; a repeat cross-sectional study of parents/carers and a sample of 20 families for the qualitative study. Intervention The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and urban regeneration primarily associated with the redevelopment of the Olympic Park for legacy use. Primary outcome measures Change in the proportion of respondents meeting physical activity recommendations (using self-reported physical activity); change in the proportion of respondents reporting depression and anxiety and change in well-being score. Main results At 6 months, adolescents who became inactive were less likely to come from the intervention borough (Newham) than from comparison boroughs [risk ratio (RR) = 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.51 to 0.93]. At 18 months, there were no statistically significant differences between intervention and comparison boroughs for all adolescent physical activity and screen-time transitions. Those who visited the Olympic Park more than once a month were the least likely to remain inactive (RR 0.11, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.48) and the least likely to become inactive (RR 0.38, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.60) compared with those who were active at baseline and at the 18-month follow-up. No impacts on parental/carer physical activity were observed. Adolescents who were ‘no longer depressed’ (RR 1.53, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.20) or ‘remained depressed’ (RR 1.78, 95% CI 1.12 to 2.83) at 6 months were more likely to be from the intervention borough. For well-being, there was no association between boroughs and change in well-being between baseline and the 6-month follow-up. At 18 months’ follow-up, adolescents who ‘remained depressed’ (RR 1.93, 95% CI 1.01 to 3.70) were more likely to be from the intervention borough than from comparison boroughs. No associations were observed for well-being at 18 months. There was limited evidence of change for parental mental health and well-being. The qualitative study found that residents generally welcomed the unexpected chance to live in a cleaner, safer and more unified environment. The findings suggested that the Games temporarily alleviated certain stressors in the social and physical environment. Overall, the Games lessened participants’ sense of social exclusion and appeared to generate a sense of inclusion and respite, even if this was only temporary. Study limitations include the potential for adolescents to not be assigned the correct level of exposure to urban regeneration and the effect of reductions in central and local public budgets owing to the UK Government’s deficit reduction programme. Conclusions This study provided the highest quality data to date on the short- and medium-term social and health impacts of sporting mega-events. We found limited evidence that the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games had a positive effect on adolescent or parental physical activity, mental health or well-being. Funding The National Institute for Health Research Public Health Research programme.


PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (2) ◽  
pp. e0247039
Author(s):  
Viviana Aya ◽  
Alberto Flórez ◽  
Luis Perez ◽  
Juan David Ramírez

Introduction The intestinal microbiota comprises bacteria, fungi, archaea, protists, helminths and viruses that symbiotically inhabit the digestive system. To date, research has provided limited data on the possible association between an active lifestyle and a healthy composition of human microbiota. This review was aimed to summarize the results of human studies comparing the microbiome of healthy individuals with different physical activity amounts. Methods We searched Medline/Ovid, NIH/PubMed, and Academic Search Complete between August–October 2020. Inclusion criteria comprised: (a) cross-sectional studies focused on comparing gut microbiome among subjects with different physical activity levels; (b) studies describing human gut microbiome responses to any type of exercise stimulus; (c) studies containing healthy adult women and men. We excluded studies containing diet modifications, probiotic or prebiotic consumption, as well as studies focused on diabetes, hypertension, cancer, hormonal dysfunction. Methodological quality and risk of bias for each study were assessed using the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies—of Interventions tool. The results from cross-sectional and longitudinal studies are shown independently. Results A total of 17 articles were eligible for inclusion: ten cross-sectional and seven longitudinal studies. Main outcomes vary significantly according to physical activity amounts in longitudinal studies. We identified discrete changes in diversity indexes and relative abundance of certain bacteria in active people. Conclusion As literature in this field is rapidly growing, it is important that studies incorporate diverse methods to evaluate other aspects related to active lifestyles such as sleep and dietary patterns. Exploration of other groups such as viruses, archaea and parasites may lead to a better understanding of gut microbiota adaptation to physical activity and sports and its potentially beneficial effects on host metabolism and endurance.


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