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Active video games can help control the condition in diabetes mellitus
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
Scientists have recently concluded that active video games can help people with diabetes control their blood sugar levels and improve their overall well-being.
The study involved 220 people with type 2 diabetes. Half of the participants were asked to play Nintendo's Wii Fit Plus video game for half an hour every day for at least three months. The scientists then examined the participants and found that the people in the gaming group had improved blood sugar levels and lost weight. When the other participants in the experiment also started playing video games, their levels also improved. According to experts, diabetics benefit from any form of exercise, even gaming. Most people with diabetes can control the disease by following a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
It is especially important for people with diabetes to lead an active lifestyle, since the body uses insulin more effectively in this case, and regular physical exercise helps to stay in good physical shape and not gain excess weight. Professor Stefan Martin and his colleagues from West Germany, who conducted this study, suggest that an active computer game is a good alternative to physical exercise, which many people (for various reasons) cannot or do not want to do.
However, a third of the participants in the experiment did not complete the required period and refused to play the video game, so experts believe that convincing people to play will be more difficult than doing gymnastics. Those participants who did fulfill the conditions of the study and played for 30 minutes a day noted improvements in their well-being and quality of life.
Doctors emphasize that regular physical activity, proper nutrition and prescribed medications will help people with type 2 diabetes not only control their condition, but also reduce the risk of possible complications associated with the disease.
When choosing a type of physical activity, the main thing is to focus on the preferences and desires of the person. Some people prefer to spend time actively during the game process, while others are more comfortable doing regular physical exercises.
The experts plan to conduct further research aimed at determining the long-term impact of computer games in comparison with other approaches.
The video game offered by specialists is a special simulator that allows you to control pressure and shift the center of gravity during training. The game console allows you to choose from more than 60 exercises that in a special game form allow you to start fitness classes right at home. This simulator was specially developed so that people could switch to a healthy lifestyle during an interesting game. The simulator allows you to choose exercises from four categories: strength exercises, aerobics, yoga, balance exercises.
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