Tai Chi Improves Type 2 Diabetes Control

Two small studies suggest Tai Chi exercises can improve the control of type 2 diabetes.

The first study investigated the effects of Tai Chi exercise on the levels of blood glucose, insulin and insulin receptors of patients with type 2 diabetes. Twelve subjects aged 58-75 years old with type 2 diabetes participated in the 8-week study. Blood glucose, serum insulin, and insulin receptor activity were measured before and after the 8-week intervention and immediately after a single bout. The results showed that by 8 weeks, the blood glucose decreased in the type 2 diabetes patients, while high- and low-affinity insulin receptor numbers (r1, r2) and low-affinity insulin receptor binding capacity (R2) increased. Serum insulin increased (p < 0.05) but was still within the normal range. After the single bout, blood glucose, high- and low-affinity insulin receptor numbers (r1, r2), and their binding capacity (R1, R2) increased (p < 0.05), while serum insulin did not change. The 8-week intervention therefore showed benefits on health status of patients with type 2 diabetes.

In the second study the research team assessed the impact of a 12 week program of Tai Chi exercises on the T helper cell activity of 30 patients with type 2 diabetes and 30 healthy people of the same age. T cells are a key component of the body’s immune system, producing powerful chemicals, including interleukins, which alter the immune response. Type 2 diabetes is associated with chronic inflammation, caused by excessive glucose in the blood (hyperglycaemia). After the 12 week program glycated haemoglobin (when excess blood sugar combines with the oxygen transporter in red blood cells) levels fell significantly from 7.59% to 7.16 in the type 2 diabetes patients. And levels of interleukin-12, which boosts the immune response, doubled. Levels of interleukin-4, which suppresses the immune response, fell. T cell activity also significantly increased. Strenuous physical activity depresses the immune system response, but moderate exercise seems to have the opposite effect, say the authors. Tai Chi is classified as moderate exercise. Previous research has shown that it boosts cardiovascular and respiratory function, as well as improving flexibility and relieving stress, they add. It might prompt a fall in blood glucose levels, or improve blood glucose metabolism, sparking a drop in the inflammatory response. Alternatively, it can boost fitness levels and the feeling of wellbeing, which may then boost the health of the immune system, they suggest.

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References:
1. Wang JH. Effects of Tai Chi exercise on patients with type 2 diabetes. Med Sport Sci. 2008;52:230-8.
2. British Journal of Sports Medicine.