Metabolic effects of high altitude trekking in patients with type 2 diabetes

Abstract

OBJECTIVE - Limited information is available regarding the metabolic effects of high altitude trekking in patients with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS - Thirteen individuals with type 2 diabetes took part in a 12-day expedition to the summit of Mount Toubkal (altitude, 4,167 m),Morocco, after 6 months of exercise training. Energy expenditure, body weight, blood glucose, fasting insulin, lipids, and HbA1c were assessed. RESULTS - Training reduced fasting glucose (-0.7 ± 0.9 mmol/L, P = 0.026) and increased exercise capacity (+0.3 ± 0.3W/kg, P = 0.005). High altitude trekking decreased fasting insulin concentrations (-3.8 ± 3.2 μU/L, P = 0.04), total cholesterol (-0.7 ± 0.8 mmol/L, P = 0.008), and LDL cholesterol (-0.5 ± 0.6 mmol/L, P = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS - High altitude trekking preceded by exercise training is feasible for patients with type 2 diabetes. It improves blood glucose, lipids, and fasting insulin concentrations, while glucose control is maintained. © 2012 by the American Diabetes Association.