Delhi Man’s Persistent High Blood Sugar Despite Regular Walks Highlights Importance of Strength Training for Type 2 Diabetes
A Delhi resident’s struggle to control his Type 2 diabetes through walking alone underscores a critical, frequently enough overlooked component of managing the condition: strength training. While walking offers significant cardiovascular benefits, experts say building muscle mass is key to improving insulin sensitivity and long-term blood sugar regulation.
Type 2 diabetes arises when the body either doesn’t respond effectively to insulin or doesn’t produce enough, leading to elevated blood sugar. Exercise is vital, but the type of exercise matters. Walking primarily utilizes fat as fuel and doesn’t substantially build muscle. Strength training,however,directly stimulates muscle fibers,increasing glucose absorption both during and after workouts as the body repairs and strengthens muscle tissue.
“Strength training builds lean muscle, and muscle is a metabolically active tissue that acts like a sponge for glucose,” explains Dr. Wangnoo,senior consultant,Endocrinology,Indraprastha Apollo hospitals,delhi. “After a workout, muscles continue to absorb sugar from the blood for repair and recovery. Over time, as muscle mass increases, so does the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels efficiently.”
Beyond glucose uptake, strength training reduces visceral fat – the perilous fat surrounding internal organs that worsens insulin resistance – improves hormonal balance, and lowers chronic inflammation, all contributing to better glucose control. It also boosts resting metabolic rate, meaning the body burns more calories and glucose even at rest.While walking remains a valuable, low-risk exercise, particularly for beginners, Dr. Wangnoo emphasizes that incorporating strength training can be “transformative” for those seeking lasting control over Type 2 diabetes. Walking improves circulation, reduces stress, and can aid in mild weight loss, but it doesn’t offer the same metabolic advantages as building muscle.
(Dr Wangnoo is senior consultant,Endocrinology,Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals,Delhi)
