Tai Chi for Diabetes

If you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes (having higher than normal blood sugar levels, but not yet in the range of diabetes) you are at increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. You can help to manage or even reverse your condition with four fairly simple lifestyle changes.

Two separate studies found a 12-week programm of exercise was enough to boost the immune system, and to cut blood sugar levels. Exercise improves the action of insulin, moving glucose out of the bloodstream and into tissues where it can be used for energy.

A large proportion of adults with type 2 diabetes don't follow activity guidelines, which recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least five times a week.

Establishing an exercise routine that encourages long-term adherence is becoming more important for staying healthy. T'ai chi has higher levels of adherence than many other types of exercise.

As it is non-competitive and levels are increased slowly, it is suitable for sedentary, overweight or disabled people, making it a good choice for those daunted by more +strenuous programs.overweight or disabled people, making it a good choice for those daunted by more strenuous programs.

If you are overweight, the more pounds you lose, the lower your chances of developing diabetes.

Start by eating a diet designed to address diabetes. Eat a diet low in refined carbohydrates, and incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and monounsaturated fats (such as olive oil) into your diet. Check out the 5 Element Seasonal Food Therapy way of balancing nutrition for optimal health.

According to Reuters Health a new study suggests that participation in the Chinese martial art Tai Chi Chuan may help boost immune function and improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.

The article states that after completing a 12-week Tai Chi exercise program, men and women with the disease had statistically significant reductions in their levels of A1C, a measurement of long-term blood glucose control.

It was reported that the participants also showed increases in regulatory T cells, which help to keep the immune response in check, while their levels of killer T cells, which destroy abnormal cells in the body, decreased.

Tai Chi improves balance and heart and lung function, and benefits immune system function in healthy individuals.

Dr. Kuender D. Yang of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan wanted to investigate whether Tai Chi might do the same for diabetic patients. Yang and his team had 32 men and women participate in three hour-long sessions of the martial art each week for 12 weeks.

The researchers noted Tai Chi could improve the immune system through its effects on cardiopulmonary health or the martial art might exert its effects by improving glucose metabolism.

According to the article, they conclude: "An appropriate combination of the Tai Chi Chuan exercise program with diabetic medications may improve both glucose metabolism and immunity of type 2 diabetic patients."

SOURCE: Diabetes Care, March 2007.