Daily physical activity predicts degree of insulin resistance: a cross-sectional observational study using the 2003–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Abstract

BackgroundThis study examined the independent association of objectively measured physical activity on insulin resistance while controlling for confounding variables including: cardiorespiratory fitness, adiposity, sex, age, and smoking status.MethodsData were obtained from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003–2004, a cross-sectional observational study conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics of the Centers for Disease Control that uses a stratified, multistage probability design to obtain a nationally representative sample of the U.S. population. The analysis included 402 healthy U.S. adults with valid accelerometer, cardiorespiratory fitness, and fasting plasma glucose and insulin concentrations. After controlling for relevant confounding variables we performed a multiple linear regression to predict homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) based on average daily minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).ResultsIn our bivariate models, MVPA, cardiorespiratory fitness and body fat percentage were all significantly correlated with log HOMA-IR. In the complete model including MVPA and relevant confounding variables, there were strong and significant associations between MVPA and log HOMA-IR (β= −0.1607, P=0.004). In contrast the association between cardiorespiratory fitness and log HOMA-IR was not significant.ConclusionWhen using an objective measure of physical activity the amount of time engaged in daily physical activity was associated with lower insulin resistance, whereas higher cardiorespiratory fitness was not. These results suggest that the amount of time engaged in physical activity may be an important determinant for improving glucose metabolism.

Effect of physical and flexibility exercise on certain hormones and fasting blood sugar of some young Nigerian adults

“…This study is in agreement with this fact as results obtained revealed a reduction post-exercise in HOMA-IR levels in both sexes, though these changes were insignificant, apparently due to the short time frame of the exercise program. This is in agreement with the earlier finding by Rachael [21] that regular exercise lowers insulin resistance.…”

Context of Physical Activity in a Representative Sample of Adults

“…A review study by Wanner et al (31) found out that active transportation was associated with increased PA (in cross-sectional studies reviewed). Similarly, meta-analyses (3, 15) demonstrated the effectiveness of community-based interventions on increasing PA in adults. The present study adds value to these lines of work by showing how adults’ MPVA in these two domains varies by socio-demographic factors.…”

Leader Behaviors, Group Cohesion, and Participation in a Walking Group Program

“…1–6 Yet fewer than half of all adults meet the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines, 7 which include at least 150 minutes per week of aerobic (e.g. brisk walking) and muscle-strengthening activities that involve all major muscle groups, on two or more days per week.…”