Improving Glycemic Control and Arterial Thickness

An intensive 6-month program of lifestyle modification can improve glycemiccontrol and slow progression of arterial thickening in people with type 2diabetes, according to newresearch.

Investigators studied the effect of lifestyle modification on 58 peoplewith type 2 diabetes who were randomly assigned to participate in an intensive16-week program of lifestyle modification and monthly meetings or be in acontrol group that received basic dietary information and usual care. Those inthe lifestyle modification program were intended to experience a modest weightloss, follow a recommended diet, and undertake physical activity of moderateintensity.

The researchers assessed metabolic parameters and measured the carotidintima-media thickness of each participant at the beginning and end of thestudy.

Participants in the intervention group had improved fasting blood glucoseand 2-hour postprandial glucose levels, improved body mass index and systolicblood pressure, and less progression of intima-media thickening than those inthe control group. Changes in glycated hemoglobin (A1C) and measures ofglucose control seemed to correlate closely with intima-media thickness.

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