Physical exercise is associated with better fat mass distribution and lower insulin resistance in spinal cord injured individuals

This study compares body composition and glucose homeostasis in physically active and non-active individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (c-SCI). The goal was to see how physical activity impacts fat distribution and insulin resistance in this population. Participants with c-SCI were divided into two groups based on their physical activity levels. The study assessed total and regional fat mass using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and measured fasting plasma insulin levels. The results indicated that the physically active group had lower total and regional fat mass, as well as lower fasting plasma insulin levels and HOMA index, suggesting better insulin sensitivity compared to the non-active group.

• 1
  Physically active individuals with c-SCI had significantly lower total fat mass (t-FM) and regional fat mass (r-FM) compared to non-active individuals.
• 2
  The physically active group presented lower fasting plasma insulin (FPI) levels and HOMA index, indicating improved insulin sensitivity.
• 3
  In the non-physically active group, fasting plasma insulin and HOMA index were positively correlated with trunk fat mass, suggesting a link between abdominal fat and insulin resistance.