Small Steps, Big Changes: The Impact of Daily Step Counts on Diabetes Prevention and Management — A Systematic Review

Objective: Physical activity is one of the primary components of non-pharmacological therapy for impaired glucose metabolism. The following study aimed to investigate the impact of daily step counts on the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Materials and methods: A systematic review of 15 publications available from scientific databases (PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, WOS) spanning the period 2014–2024 was conducted. Results: Daily physical activity, which can be measured indirectly by the daily step count, has been shown to reduce overall morbidity and mortality from T2D. Optimal effects on glucose metabolism are seen with a daily step count ranging from 4500 to 9000 per day. Going beyond this range is not associated with a direct health benefit for T2D prevention and management. Conclusions: Advising patients with glucose metabolism disorders, such as T2D, to take at least 10,000 steps per day is not recommended due to the lack of metabolic benefits and potential discouragement of setting too high of a goal. Recommending at least 4500 steps per day appears to be more appropriate.