One of the most cited figures on type 2 diabetes prevention comes from a three-year follow-up of people at high risk of developing the disease. The group that followed a low-fat diet combined with 150 weekly minutes of moderate exercise cut their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58%.
Researchers note that weight loss was the main factor associated with that risk reduction, though exercise also brought its own benefits for insulin sensitivity, independent of weight lost.
Results like these reinforce public health messages that place regular physical activity, together with diet, among the most effective and accessible tools for preventing type 2 diabetes.