This helps STOP diabetes in its tracks (you do it every day) 

 

When it comes to assessing energy metabolism and blood sugar regulation, your insulin levels paint a clear picture. That’s why I routinely test for them at my practice.  

But I would be willing to bet that many of you have never had your insulin levels tested. (Unless you have diabetes.)  

The fact is, though, that when insulin levels start to rise—it’s often the first sign of insulin resistance, where your body cannot react to insulin normally. As a result, blood sugar levels begin to skyrocket. This ultimately paves the way to metabolic syndrome and diabetes.  

So, keeping this number low is vitally important to help keep these chronic conditions at bay.  

And doing so is a lot simpler than you may have ever imagined… 

Stand for prevention 

As part of a new Finnish study, researchers examined the links between insulin resistance and sedentary behavior, physical activity, and fitness levels among a group of inactive adults at higher risk of diabetes and heart disease. 

Ultimately, they linked standing—yes, standing—with greater insulin sensitivity. Meaning that simply standing more every day may be all it takes to ward off insulin resistance and chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes. (That link was independent of daily exercise levels, sitting time, fitness, or even weight.) 

And I have to say, I’m not surprised.  

There’s a reason that standing desks have become so popular in recent years. It’s also exactly why I encourage people to get up from their desks, their chairs, and their couches every hour, even if it’s only for a few minutes.   

Be mindful of the scale 

Another interesting finding of this study is that body composition has strong ties to insulin sensitivity. In fact, body fat percentage was found to be a more important factor than exercise levels, fitness, or sitting time.  

This falls in line with what I’ve reported here before—that one of the main factors behind insulin resistance is being overweight or obese. And unfortunately, obesity rates are at an all-time high here in the U.S.   

So, take the usual steps to help keep your waistline in check: Commit to a healthy, balanced (like my A-List Diet), and regular exercise (aim for at least 20 minutes daily). But also—never underestimate the power of standing. (Remember, standing carried benefits independently of these factors.) 

Because as this new research reveals, standing more will help keep your insulin levels low. News really doesn’t get any better—or simpler—than that.  

P.S. Looking for another unique way to keep insulin resistance at bay? One of my favorite supplements can actually help SLASH diabetes risk by 60 percent! I tell you all about it in the August 2019 issue of my monthly Logical Health Alternatives newsletter (“Your metabolism’s new best friend”). Not yet a subscriber? Click here now to become one! 

Source: 

“Researchers observed association between standing and insulin sensitivity – standing more may help prevent chronic diseases.” Science Daily, 09/10/2021. (sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/09/210910121620.htm)