Exercise Regimen Recommendations in Type II Diabetics and Their Effects on Glucose Control

Author

Emily Schroeder Smith, University of the PacificFollow

Date of Award

4-3-2020

Document Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Master of Physician Assistant Studies

Department

Physician Assistant Education

First Advisor

Rahnea Sunseri

Abstract

The most effective non-pharmacologic method of reducing the hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1c) levels in type II diabetic patients is still debated. Clinicians evaluating and treating Type II Diabetics (T2DM) generally recommend diet and lifestyle modifications as initial therapy. The medical literature comparing different types of exercise and their effects on glucose control was reviewed with the goal of determining whether aerobic or resistance exercise was more effective for reducing HgbA1c levels in type II diabetics. The more effective form of exercise, if any, could then be recommended in addition to diet and other lifestyle changes. Although the studies were heterogeneous in their methods of comparison, no significant differences in their overall reductions in HgbA1c measures were found between aerobic and resistance training. Moreover, the greatest decreases in HgbA1c levels changes were observed with a combination of aerobic and resistance training. More extensive research is needed to determine the long-term effects of exercise programs on HgbA1c levels.

Recommended Citation

Smith, Emily Schroeder, "Exercise Regimen Recommendations in Type II Diabetics and Their Effects on Glucose Control" (2020). Physician Assistant Capstones. 79.
https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/pa-capstones/79