Comparison of high intensity interval training and moderate intensity continuous training on blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic condition characterized by insulin resistance and elevated blood glucose levels. This condition can lead to various complications such as vascular and nerve damage. Exercise is one of the interventions for T2DM as it can help control blood glucose levels, such as High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training (MICT).
Methods: This study is a systematic review of published journals regarding HIIT and MICT exercise in T2DM patients. Six databases were used in this study: PubMed, Science Direct, Research Gate, SAGE Journals, Scopus, and Web of Science, which were then screened to meet the criteria for eligible studies. Out of 9,431 articles, 5 articles were deemed eligible for use in this study. In total, there were 5 qualifying studies, including 3 RCTs and 2 clinical trials.
Results: The effects of HIIT and MICT in reducing blood glucose levels were found to be significant in two studies, while the other two studies showed no significant effect. Bias analysis using RoB2 categorized most of the studies as low risk, although some studies raised concerns.
Conclusion: This study concludes that HIIT interventions show a more significant effect in reducing blood glucose levels compared to MICT. However, further research is needed to determine the optimal type and duration of HIIT to effectively manage blood glucose levels.