High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Insulin Resistance

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is an effective exercise regimen that alternates short bursts of intense activity with brief recovery periods, known for improving cardiovascular health, building muscle, and burning fat. Addressing insulin resistance, a condition where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin and a precursor to type 2 diabetes, is vital to prevent more severe health issues.
HIIT

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High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a popular exercise regimen that involves short bursts of intense activity followed by brief recovery periods. It is renowned for its effectiveness in improving cardiovascular health, building muscle, and burning fat. Insulin resistance is a condition where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This resistance can lead to elevated blood sugar levels and is a precursor to type 2 diabetes. It is crucial to address insulin resistance early to prevent more severe health issues.

What is Insulin Resistance?

Glucose is the main fuel for the cells of our body. Insulin plays a vital role in helping the glucose uptake by the cell. For this, the insulin molecule sits on the insulin receptor and activates it. The activated insulin receptor then sends a series of signals which finally make the glucose receptor pop up on the cell surface . The glucose molecule then sits on this glucose receptor which socks the glucose molecule into the cell and blood glucose level normal uses.

In insulin resistance,  the insulin molecule is not able to activate the insulin receptor,  hence the glucose receptor does not pop up on the cell surface and hence glucose can’t be taken up from the blood into the cell and blood sugar level rises. This is called insulin resistance.

How HIIT Influences Insulin Sensitivity

High-intensity interval Training (HIIT) has a significant impact on insulin sensitivity by enhancing the body’s ability to use glucose more effectively during intense exercise, which helps lower blood sugar levels. Over time, this improvement in glucose management can lead to reduced insulin resistance, especially in individuals who are overweight or have type 2 diabetes. Engaging in HIIT boosts the body’s ability to regulate glucose, contributing to better overall metabolic health.

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Role of HIIT in Managing Insulin Resistance

When doing HIIT exercises, the fast-twitch muscle fibers in your body play a key role. These muscles use glucose from your blood for energy, which helps lower blood sugar levels. What’s fascinating is that this process happens regardless of whether insulin is present. This means HIIT can also benefit people with Type 1 diabetes.

Additionally, the adrenaline released during HIIT can aid in fat loss. As your muscles use up the glucose in your blood, your body starts using fat as its main energy source.1

Exercise Training Tips

If you have type 2 diabetes, exercise is crucial for potentially reversing the condition, not just managing it. The benefits of exercise on insulin resistance can appear quickly, sometimes within a few days, and may last up to 48 hours. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is particularly effective for this purpose due to its focus on intensity. HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by recovery periods and can be completed in just 20-25 minutes, times a week. This type of training activates fast-twitch muscle fibers, which use glucose from the blood for energy, thus lowering blood sugar levels.

A typical HIIT workout might include a 3-minute warm-up, 10 cycles of 30-second sprints with 60 seconds of rest, and a 2-minute cool-down, totaling around 20 minutes. HIIT can be performed with various exercises such as biking, running, weightlifting, or swimming, but the key is to maintain high intensity throughout. While exercise is vital, it’s just one part of managing diabetes.

Strategies for Combating Insulin Resistance

While HIIT is highly effective, combining it with other strategies can yield even better results. Adding strength training and moderate aerobic exercises can further improve insulin sensitivity. Diet is also key; eating a balanced diet with whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports overall health. Long-term management of insulin resistance requires consistent physical activity and a healthy diet. 2

Conclusion

In summary, High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) offers significant benefits for improving insulin sensitivity and managing insulin resistance, including its effects on the liver. By incorporating HIIT into your fitness routine and adopting a balanced lifestyle, you can effectively combat insulin resistance and enhance your overall health.

  1. https://exerciseright.com.au/exercising-beating-insulin-resistance/#:~:text=The%20HIIT%20technique%20involves%20short,its%20effects%20on%20insulin%20sensitivity ↩︎
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5725446/ ↩︎
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Dr. Tulip

Dr. Tulip is an advanced laparoscopic and Bariatric surgeon practicing in Bangalore at TODS- Dr. Tulips Obesity and Diabetes Surgery Centre

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