Research
Hormonal
Regular exercise and calorie restriction improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the prevalence of metabolic syndrome-associated diseases by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK).
Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine to improve how your body handles insulin. You don't need to be an elite athlete; consistent movement helps activate AMPK, a key enzyme that improves metabolic health and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
Regular exercise and calorie restriction have long been known to increase insulin sensitivity and decrease the prevalence of these disorders. The subsequent identification of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and its activation by exercise and fuel deprivation have led to studies of the effects of AMPK on both IR and metabolic syndrome–related diseases.
Why this rating
Supported by extensive epidemiological evidence, animal models, and clinical observations of AMPK activity in human tissues.
Source
AMPK, insulin resistance, and the metabolic syndrome
Neil B. Ruderman et al. · Journal of Clinical Investigation · 2013
DOI 10.1172/jci67227
narrative_reviewCited 860×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
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