Regular exercise with an active lifestyle improves the lipid profile of individuals with diabetes mellitus

Incidence of diabetes with its associated morbidities is increasing worldwide and hence needs major lifestyle modifications. Hence, this study was designed to compare the effect of moderate intensity exercise for a shorter period of time with an active lifestyle to a low-intensity exercise for a longer period of time and sedentary lifestyle on the lipid profile of diabetic men. The outpatients of MV Hospital were screened using a structured questionnaire to evaluate their lifestyle and exercise pattern over a period of 12 months. The data of 293 men and women were divided into three groups based on their activity level. Group 1 led a totally sedentary lifestyle with no exercise. Group 2 included individuals who were active throughout the day and walked at moderate intensity for a period of 20–30 min, and group 3 exercised at a low intensity for a period of 45–60 min with a sedentary lifestyle. The anthropometric measurements and the lipid profiles of the three groups were compared. A total 41.8 % of the group which led an active lifestyle as well as a moderate intensity of exercise had good glycemic control. The non-HDL levels were 131 ± 38.4 which was significantly lower than the other groups. Hence, the group which led an active lifestyle with moderate intensity exercise fared better than the sedentary group. An active lifestyle throughout the day with an exercise schedule of moderate intensity maintains the lipid parameters more effectively than a low-intensity exercise for a much longer period of time.