Evaluating the ethnic differences of physical activity on blood glucose

The Leicester Lifestyle and Health Research Group (LLHRG)

Aim: To develop an algorithm to recommend duration and intensity of exercise to respond to raised glucose levels in people with diabetes

Background:

Previous studies have shown that bouts of exercise both prior to, and after breakfast led to decreases in glucose levels over short (2 hours) and longer (24 hour) durations (1-3). These benefits have been seen in those living with obesity, pre-diabetes, and type 2 diabetes. Whilst we understand that exercise is beneficial to reduce post-prandial glucose, there isn’t information on the duration or intensity (volume or dose) of exercise is required to produce a desired reduction in post-prandial glucose. It is also not clear how this relationship changes with age or ethnicity. Given the higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes, as well as greater insulin resistance, in those from a south Asian background, exercise to lower post-prandial glucose may be of particular use in this population (4, 5). Therefore, this PhD project aims to develop an algorithm that may drive a bio-behavioural feedback loop to determine the volume (duration and intensity) of physical activity required to produce a reduction in glucose levels.

 Methods:

Chapter one will comprise a literature review, and potential meta-analysis, to summarise the effect of different intensities, durations, and modalities of exercise on post-prandial glucose concentrations. Chapter two will utilise experimental medicine methods to compare the post-prandial glucose response to various exercise intensities, durations, and modalities. The sample will be stratified by ethnicity to investigate ethnic differences in responses to exercise. In chapter three, participants will be asked to wear a continuous glucose monitor and Fitbit device. Exercise “bouts” will be determined from the Fitbit steps data and the effect of these on post-prandial glucose levels in the real-world will be assessed.

Expected outcomes and impact:

This project will quantify the effect of exercise bouts on post-prandial glucose levels and use this to develop a bio-feedback loop that may advise the duration and intensity of exercise required to reduce glucose. This could take the form of advice such as “If you were to take a 15-minute walk, you could reduce your insulin bolus by X”.

To apply

Please refer to our web page. Read the How to Apply section carefully and use the application link at the bottom of the web page to apply

https://le.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/funded-opportunities/leicester-lifestyle–and-health-rg

Enquiries to the project supervisor Professor Pratik Choudhary [email protected]

Further enquiries to [email protected] (Include Leicester Lifestyle and Health E3 studentship in the subject line)