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A recent study published in Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism suggests that short, frequent walks may help lower elevated postprandial vascular inflammatory biomarkers in individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The research highlights the potential benefits of breaking up long periods of sitting with light-intensity activity.
The SIT-LESS Study
The study, known as the SIT-LESS trial, was a randomized crossover study that included 32 individuals with T1D who were on a stable insulin regimen and classified as “inactive” according to international physical activity guidelines. Participants completed two separate 7-hour laboratory visits, spaced at least a week apart.
During one visit, participants remained seated in a reclining chair for the entire duration. During the other, they took 3-minute walks every 30 minutes, starting one hour after each meal. Researchers monitored meals, insulin regimens, and step counts 48 hours before and after the first visit. To assess inflammation, plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1, and fibrinogen were measured at baseline, 3.5 hours, and 7 hours.
Key Findings
The study found that prolonged sitting led to a significant increase in postprandial levels of inflammatory biomarkers over time. Specifically, participants who remained seated experienced increases in TNF-alpha (49%), IL-1 beta (67%), PAI-1 (49%), and fibrinogen (62%). In contrast, those who engaged in brief walking breaks showed reductions in these biomarkers—TNF-alpha decreased by 22%, IL-1 beta by 9%, PAI-1 by 42%, and fibrinogen by 44%.
Moreover, individuals with high insulin resistance showed a greater reduction in PAI-1 and fibrinogen levels compared to those with lower insulin resistance, suggesting that walking breaks may be particularly beneficial for this subgroup.
Implications for Diabetes Management
These findings support the idea that simple lifestyle modifications, such as taking short walking breaks throughout the day, could play an essential role in reducing inflammation in people with T1D. Since chronic inflammation is linked to cardiovascular disease and other diabetes-related complications, such interventions could help improve long-term health outcomes.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals with type 1 diabetes should consult their healthcare provider before making any changes to their physical activity routine.
