Diabetes and Role of Exercise on its Control; A systematic Review

Diabetes mellitus is the most common metabolic diseases. It is estimated that worldwide prevalence will reach to 21% in 2050. In Iran the prevalence of diabetes is estimated to be about 14%. It divided in two categories: type I and type II. Diabetes type I is due to absolute deficiency of insulin secretion, and type II characterized by resistances to insulin and its inadequate compensation. The aim of diabetes treatment is regulation of blood glucose, lipid and blood pressure to prevent or postpone its complication. Diet, physical activity and medication are three cornerstones in treatment of diabetes. Endurance and resistance and combination exercise are useful in control of diabetes and its dangerous complication. A session of aerobic exercise has shown to increase insulin sensitivity for up to 24-72 hours. Positive effect of exercise is due to its effect on weight loose, increase of Glut4 in muscle, blood flow and decrease in hepatic glucose production. Prolong resistance exercise improve insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance and increase skeletal muscle mass and its glucose deposition. Exercise prescription for diabetic patients must be done according to their inability, orthopedic limitation and complication of diabetes, so a team of specialist is needed to determine the level and protocol of exercise.