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A new study suggests that engaging in just 150 minutes of exercise per week could significantly improve the health outlook for people with prediabetes, potentially reversing the condition and lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes1.
Prediabetes is a state where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. With type 2 diabetes cases rising globally—currently affecting over 6% of adults and projected to reach 7% by 2030—addressing prediabetes has become a critical public health concern1.
Researchers analyzed data from 130 adults enrolled in a cardiovascular risk program in Cali, Colombia, between 2019 and 2023. All participants had prediabetes at the start of the study, with a mean age of 69.5 years and just over half being women. Nearly half were classified as overweight or obese1.
After one year of follow-up, the study found:
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21.5% of participants returned to normal blood glucose levels
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13.8% progressed to type 2 diabetes
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64.6% remained prediabetic1
Crucially, those who exercised more than 150 minutes per week were four times more likely to revert to normal blood glucose levels compared to those who exercised less1.
Dr. David Cutler, a board-certified family medicine physician not involved in the study, emphasized, “Diet, weight control, and exercise are the key ingredients to a long and healthy life. And now you can have a concrete target to shoot for, 150 minutes of exercise per week”1.
The study also identified factors that decreased the likelihood of reversing prediabetes:
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BMI greater than 25 (overweight or obesity) was linked to a 76% lower chance of remission
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HbA1c levels above 6% reduced the likelihood of reversal by 74% compared to those with levels below 6%1
Lucy Chambers, Head of Research Impact and Communications at Diabetes UK, commented, “Prediabetes can feel like you’re on the road towards type 2 diabetes, but there’s still time to make a U-turn. While some risk factors like age, genetics or ethnicity can’t be changed, research has consistently shown that increasing physical activity, improving your diet and managing your weight can halve your risk of type 2 diabetes”1.
Disclaimer:
This article summarizes findings from recent research and expert commentary. It is not intended as medical advice. Individuals should consult their healthcare provider before making changes to their exercise or diet routines, especially if they have existing health conditions1.
