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02 Apr 2008
People with type 2 diabetes could benefit from doing gentle Tai Chi exercises, new research suggests.
Two studies published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine linked a 12-week programme of the traditional Chinese martial art with a boosted immune system and lower blood sugar levels.
Taiwanese researchers in the first study compared 30 people with diabetes with 30 healthy people over a course of 12-weeks.
Under the guidance of an expert, participants learnt 37 Tai Chi movements and took part in three hour-long sessions per week.
The second study, carried out by researchers at the University of Queensland, Australia looked at 11 participants trained in Tai Chi and Qigong martial arts and found similar results.
People taking part in the study experienced lower blood sugar levels, lost weight and improved their insulin resistance. They also said they had higher energy levels and slept better.
Commenting on the research, Cathy Moulton, care advisor at Diabetes UK, said that the studies confirmed the importance of moderate exercise in helping to control type 2 diabetes.
"In addition to the importance of moderate physical activity, the relaxation element of Tai Chi may help to reduce stress levels, preventing the release of adrenalin which can lead to insulin resistance and high blood glucose levels," she said.
People with diabetes should aim to do a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity at least fives times per week, the charity added.
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