Cardiovascular Exercise for Type 2 Diabetes
(REACH Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether cardiovascular exercise improves heart and muscle function in people with type 2 diabetes by enhancing insulin use. It involves two groups: participants with type 2 diabetes and healthy individuals who are overweight. The study seeks individuals who exercise less than an hour a week and have a BMI between 25 and 40. Participants should not have heart disease, asthma, or use certain medications like insulin. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding the benefits of exercise for diabetes management.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that participants do not take certain medications, including beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, insulin, or Thiazolidinediones (TZD). If you are on these medications, you may need to stop taking them to participate.
What prior data suggests that cardiovascular exercise is safe for individuals with type 2 diabetes?
Research shows that regular exercise is generally safe for people with type 2 diabetes. Studies have found that exercise helps control blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of heart disease. It also aids in weight loss and improves overall well-being.
Exercise is safe for most people and is a natural activity with rare serious side effects. Some might experience muscle soreness or tiredness, but these effects are usually mild and temporary. Large studies confirm that physical activity benefits heart health and lowers the risk of diabetes-related complications.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the cardiovascular exercise trial for type 2 diabetes because it focuses on a non-pharmaceutical approach to managing the condition. Unlike standard treatments, such as metformin or insulin therapy, which concentrate on controlling blood sugar levels through medication, cardiovascular exercise aims to improve overall metabolic health by enhancing cardiovascular fitness. This method could lead to better long-term health outcomes, including weight management and improved insulin sensitivity, without the side effects associated with medication. Additionally, incorporating exercise as a treatment empowers patients to take an active role in managing their health, potentially leading to more sustainable lifestyle changes.
What evidence suggests that cardiovascular exercise might be an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes?
Research has shown that cardiovascular exercise, such as jogging or cycling, can greatly benefit people with type 2 diabetes. In this trial, participants with type 2 diabetes will engage in cardiovascular exercise to evaluate its effects. Studies have found that this type of exercise helps control blood sugar and lower blood pressure. It can also reduce waist size and improve cholesterol levels. Regular exercise strengthens the heart and reduces the risk of heart problems. Overall, exercise is a powerful way to manage type 2 diabetes and improve health.13467
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for sedentary adults with a BMI of 25-40, who may or may not have type 2 diabetes. It's not suitable for those with uncontrolled high blood pressure, taking certain heart and diabetes medications, smokers, or people with cardiovascular disease, lung conditions like asthma, severe nerve damage in limbs (peripheral neuropathy), anemia, liver or kidney disease.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo exercise training to assess its impact on insulin resistance and muscle perfusion
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cardiovascular exercise
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Colorado, Denver
Lead Sponsor
University of Virginia
Collaborator
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Collaborator