More exercise and less television may have a protective effect on glucose metabolism in adults, according to researchers from Australia.
Results of a new study show TV viewing of over 14 hours per week more than doubled the risk of new type-2-diabetes cases in adults. Impaired glucose tolerance in women was also statistically significant in those who watched more than 14 hours of television a week.
Researchers suggest the promotion of physical activity and encouragement of adults to watch less television as public health strategies to prevent abnormal glucose metabolism and type 2 diabetes.
Previous studies show sedentary behavior has been linked to obesity and cardiovascular disease risk factors in children and adults.
Authors of the current study conclude, “These findings suggest that the promotion of physical activity and encouragement of adults to watch less television may be important dual public health strategies for the prevention of abnormal glucose metabolism and type 2 diabetes.”
SOURCE:Diabetes Care, 2004;27:2603-2609