2023-12-10 00:36:00
Study Shows Soaking in Hot Water Can Benefit Insulin Sensitivity in Diabetics
A recent study published in the American Journal of Physiology has revealed that soaking in hot water can have significant benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study, led by Dr. Anthony Shepherd from the University of Portsmouth in England, focused on the effects of hot water immersion on insulin sensitivity and other metabolic parameters in individuals with diabetes.
The study was based on previous findings that soaking in hot water can help control energy use and improve insulin sensitivity in normal individuals. However, there was limited information about the effects of hot water immersion in people who already have diabetes.
The unique characteristics of diabetes, including chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, make it a challenging condition to manage. Current treatments aim to improve insulin sensitivity through a combination of exercise, diet control, and medication. However, these approaches are not always successful, and individuals with diabetes often struggle to control their food intake and exercise regularly.
The study found that soaking in hot water for extended periods of time can lead to improvements in insulin sensitivity, blood sugar levels, and inflammation in individuals with diabetes. The effects were observed in both fasting and postprandial states. The study also showed that repeated hot water immersion over a prolonged period had beneficial effects on resting metabolic rate, helping to control weight and improve cardiovascular efficiency.
The mechanism behind the benefits of hot water immersion involves a reduction in chronic inflammation through increased heat shock protein 72 in adipose tissue. This has the effect of reducing inflammatory factors and increasing glucose utilization by insulin. Additionally, heat exposure increases muscle blood flow and endothelial nitric oxide synthase, further reducing inflammation and increasing insulin sensitivity.
The study involved a specific protocol for hot water immersion, including a water temperature of 40 degrees and a soaking time of 1 hour. This was repeated 8 to 10 times over a 14-day period. The study included 14 participants with diabetes, and various metabolic parameters were measured before and after the intervention.
The results of the study showed improvements in fasting insulin sensitivity and reduced plasma insulin levels. However, other parameters such as fasting blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity after meals did not show significant changes. The study also found a decrease in resting metabolic rate following hot water immersion.
Overall, the study suggests that soaking in hot water can have significant benefits for individuals with diabetes, improving insulin sensitivity and metabolic parameters. However, the researchers emphasize that hot water immersion should be used in conjunction with other lifestyle interventions, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, for optimal health outcomes.
While the study provides promising findings, further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of hot water immersion in individuals with diabetes. Nevertheless, the study sheds light on a potential new approach to managing diabetes and improving metabolic health.]
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