A recent study by the Universities of Eastern Finland, Bristol, and Exeter has shed light on the link between physical activity and blood insulin levels in young people. The study, led by docent Andrew Agbaje from the University of Eastern Finland, followed 792 children from before birth, monitoring their movement with a wearable device at ages 11, 15, and 24.
The research found that low physical activity in childhood and adolescence was associated with elevated blood insulin levels. On the other hand, engaging in light exercise significantly reduced the risk of increased insulin and insulin resistance. The study also highlighted childhood immobility as a global issue, with excessive screen time contributing to the problem.
Insulin resistance, which requires more insulin than usual to transport sugar from the blood into cells, is often indicated by high blood insulin levels and can predict the development of type 2 diabetes. The study found that increased screen time was linked to higher blood insulin levels, particularly in overweight and obese young people. Engaging in three to four hours of light exercise per day was shown to decrease the risk of elevated insulin and insulin resistance.
While vigorous exercise also lowered insulin levels, the study emphasized the benefits of consistent light exercise in reducing the risk of metabolic disorders, inflammation, arterial hardening, and obesity in young people. Agbaje recommended discussing the importance of exercise more widely to help prevent these health issues.
In addition to its impact on preventing obesity and related conditions, sufficient exercise was found to have a direct effect on insulin levels, reducing the risk of high insulin in overweight and obese individuals. This underscores the importance of regular physical activity in maintaining overall health and reducing the risk of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes.
Overall, this study highlights how important it is for young people to engage in regular physical activity as part of their daily routine. By doing so they can not only prevent obesity but also reduce their risk of developing other chronic health conditions such as type 2 diabetes.
