Lifestyle Changes Improve Artery Health

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Effects of lifestyle modification on metabolic parameters and carotid intima-media thickness in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, by S.H. Kim and colleagues. Metabolism 55:1053-1059, 2006.

What is the problem and what is known about it so far?

Among the complications of type 2 diabetes is damage to blood vessels that can lead to cardiovascular disease (CVD, disease of the heart and blood vessels).

Lifestyle habits, including diet and physical activity, are known to influence cardiovascular disease. For people without major health issues, increasing physical activity and adopting a more healthful diet can lower the chances of developing cardiovascular disease. But it isn't known if this holds true for people with diabetes.

Why did the researchers do this particular study?

The researchers wanted to see if lifestyle change affects arterial thickening.

Who was studied?

The study included 58 people with type 2 diabetes treated at one medical center in South Korea.

How was the study done?

Half of the participants took part in a lifestyle modification program that included dietary changes. Those changes were aimed at producing a slight weight loss and a moderate level of physical activity, such as brisk walking, for at least 150 minutes per week. The remainder of the study participants stuck with their usual habits. The study lasted for six months.

What did the researchers find?

Participants who adopted lifestyle change had better levels of glucose in the blood, improved levels of A1C (a measure of long-term glucose control), lower blood pressure, and slower development of cardiovascular disease signs.

What were the limitations of the study?

The number of people in the study was small (58 people), and all were recruited from a university hospital. The results may be different if participants come from private medical clinics. The study period was rather short at six months. A longer study may show different results.

What are the implications of the study?

Lifestyle change including a healthful diet and increased level of physical activity appears to improve the early symptoms of cardiovascular disease. More research is needed to see if people who adopt lifestyle changes are less likely to develop cardiovascular disease in the long term.

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