Does the body’s insulin response change during exercise?

Asked by: Khdor Chapman

In summary, during exercise there is a decrease in plasma insulin due to increased sympathetic activity and inhibition of pancreatic insulin release. This decrease in insulin does not impede muscle glucose uptake which occurs via mechanisms independent of insulin.

Does exercise change insulin sensitivity?

Exercise/muscle contraction activates glucose transport. The increase in muscle glucose transport induced by exercise is independent of insulin. As the acute effect of exercise on glucose transport wears off, it is replaced by an increase in insulin sensitivity.

Does exercise control insulin levels?

When you do moderate exercise, like walking, that makes your heart beat a little faster and breathe a little harder. Your muscles use more glucose, the sugar in your blood stream. Over time, this can lower your blood sugar levels. It also makes the insulin in your body work better.

Why does insulin decrease during exercise?

In summary, during exercise there is a decrease in plasma insulin due to increased sympathetic activity and inhibition of pancreatic insulin release. This decrease in insulin does not impede muscle glucose uptake which occurs via mechanisms independent of insulin.

Do you need more insulin when exercising?

For example, increased activity may mean that you need to lower your insulin dose or eat some extra carbs before exercising to keep your blood sugar in a safe range. Some activities may cause your blood sugar to drop quickly while others do not.

What does running do to insulin?

Typically, exercise can help to lower blood sugars by increasing insulin sensitivity and burning glucose. For some people, running can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) during, after, or later in the day or overnight after exercise.

Does exercise lower blood sugar immediately?

Exercise draws on reserve sugar stored in your muscles and liver. As your body rebuilds these stores, it takes sugar from your blood. The more strenuous your workout, the longer your blood sugar will be affected. Low blood sugar is possible even four to eight hours after exercise.

Is it normal for blood sugar to rise after exercise?

It is healthy for blood sugar to rise during exercise because the muscles need the excess fuel to compensate for the increased demand placed upon them. But in most people the body will adjust after exercising and bring the blood sugar levels back to normal.