What lifestyle change is suggested to help decrease insulin resistance?

Engaging in exercise is a well-documented lifestyle change that significantly helps decrease insulin resistance. Regular physical activity improves the body’s ability to use insulin effectively. This is primarily because exercise stimulates glucose uptake by muscle cells, allowing them to utilize glucose for energy more efficiently. Furthermore, engaging in regular aerobic and resistance training can enhance muscle mass, which is metabolically active tissue that contributes to better glucose metabolism.

Exercise also leads to various physiological adaptations, such as improved blood flow, increased mitochondrial density in muscle cells, and enhanced cardiovascular health, all of which contribute to better overall insulin sensitivity. Additionally, physical activity helps in weight management, which is another critical factor in improving insulin sensitivity, as excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, is linked to higher insulin resistance.

In contrast, increasing sugar intake or practicing high-fat diets may lead to worsening insulin sensitivity, as these dietary choices can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels and increased fat accumulation. Reducing hydration is unrelated to insulin resistance and does not impact how the body responds to insulin. Therefore, engaging in exercise is the most effective recommendation for reducing insulin resistance.