A step in the right direction: exploring the effects of aerobic exercise on HbA1c reduction

Abstract

Abstract Diabetes has become a serious health concern for the global population. An estimated 643 million people will have type 2 diabetes mellitus by the year 2030. A sedentary lifestyle is one of the important risk factors along with obesity, hypertension, and diet. Exercise improves blood glucose levels and reduces glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Physical aerobic exercise utilizes energy stored in the form of ATP and helps to burn stored fat. The process of muscular contraction during a physical workout controls the mechanisms responsible for improving blood glucose levels. These involve complex pathways that ultimately increase the uptake of blood glucose, improve insulin sensitivity and blood flow, and optimize the functioning of the endocrine pancreas. An overall reduction in HbA1C can be achieved through the interplay of all these pathways.