What is the recommended amount of exercise per week to assist in preventing Type 2 Diabetes?

The recommended amount of exercise to help in preventing Type 2 Diabetes is 150 minutes per week. This guideline aligns with the recommendations from numerous health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Diabetes Association. Engaging in regular physical activity, specifically moderate-intensity aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, significantly reduces the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.

The rationale behind this recommendation is that accumulating 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week helps improve insulin sensitivity, aids in weight management, and promotes overall cardiovascular health, all of which are key factors in diabetes prevention. This level of activity has been shown to yield significant health benefits, including lower blood sugar levels and better metabolic profiles.

While other options suggest higher amounts of weekly exercise, such as 300 or 450 minutes, these are typically geared toward additional health benefits or weight loss rather than the foundational prevention of Type 2 Diabetes. For most individuals, especially those at risk or new to exercise, the 150-minute guideline strikes a balance between being achievable and effective for health promotion and diabetes prevention.