Study shows benefits of cycling for people with diabetes

A recent study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, evaluated more than 100,000 people with diabetes from 10 European countries. Cycling practice was associated with a 24% reduction in mortality when compared to non-cyclists.

 It was already known that regular physical exercise improves the body's sensitivity to insulin and also reduces cardiovascular risk factors in people with type 2 diabetes. Cycling is often recommended for patients with diabetes of this type.

 There are several studies showing that cycling is beneficial for people with diabetes, compared to other sports. It is a repetitive and constant activity that activates 70% of the muscle mass in the legs. In addition, muscle recovery times are much faster. Also a Danish study that was published in the journal PLOS Medicine showed that cycling every day helps to prevent diabetes.

 Therefore, cycling combined with healthy lifestyle habits and a balanced diet are beneficial factors for the disease and its prevention.