Deal A Blow Against Diabetes

Surprisingly, you may enjoy some of the most dramatic benefits from strength training if you’re a type 2 diabetic. It could help you get a drip on glucose control, according to an Australian study of overweight diabetic seniors age 60 to 80.

In this study, one group of men and women lifted weights three days a week for six months while eating a healthy, low-calorie diet. Another group ate the wholesome diet and did some stretching exercises. Both groups lose weight at the end of the research, but only the strength-training seniors gained lean body mass and significantly improved their blood-sugar control.

The scientists Down Under were not sure exactly how it worked. They suspected muscle works like a blood-sugar sponge, absorbing glucose out of your system. The strength-training group gained muscle mass as their blood sugar dropped. The second group, on the other hand, lost some of their muscle mass. So this theory seems to make sense.

As all diabetics know, better blood sugar control means less side effects, like heart disease, nerve and kidney problems, and blindness. You don’t need more reasons than these to start pumping iron. But remember - check with your doctor before you head for the gym.