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December 12, 2001

Exercise and Sports

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Question from Baltimore, Maryland, USA:

I am confused as to how exercise lowers blood glucose levels. Intuitively, it would seem that physical activity would require more insulin as cells would need more glucose for energy. What is the mechanism of action that reduces blood glucose levels with exercise?

Answer:

From: DTeam Staff

Exercise changes the insulin receptors on the surface of the muscles, fat cells and liver cells. This allows the body to be significantly more efficient and utilize less insulin to get cellular energy requirements met.

SB