Prevention of Type II diabetes mellitus through lifestyle intervention in predisposed obese adults

Abstract

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is rising fast, in part due to the increased prevalence of obesity. Lifestyle intervention can be a possible solution for the prevention of type 2 diabetes because it can contribute to weight loss and weight maintenance. Since exercise intensity can play a role in the decrease of obesity and therefore the prevention of T2DM, the goal of this study was to compare the effect of moderate and high intensity physical activity on body composition, glucose tolerance and physical fitness. Forty three predisposed obese adults were included. Body composition was measured with the use of a BodPod and glucose tolerance was measured by performing an oral glucose tolerance test. Finally, physical fitness was evaluated by performing an incremental ergometer test. In addition, baecke questionnaires and accelerometers were used to evaluate the physical activity level of the participants. The results of the accelerometers, baecke questionnaires and VO2max test showed no significant difference in exercise intensity between both groups therefore both groups were taken together for further analyses. Results showed that physical activity in combination with moderate protein diet was capable of improving body composition and glucose tolerance. Therefore, lifestyle intervention can provide opportunities to prevent T2DM in predisposed obese adults.