Blood sugar control remains a major health concern. Dr. Wang Jie-li emphasizes that the key is exercise, not food. Studies show that when a person exercises, post-meal blood sugar and insulin levels can be directed primarily to the active muscles to replenish glycogen, helping to regulate blood glucose.
But what about fidgeting or leg shaking—can it lower blood sugar? Dr. Wang explains that because this movement also contracts muscle fibers, it does have an effect, but since far fewer fibers are involved, the overall impact on blood sugar is limited.
Diabetes affects multiple body systems, with common complications including retinal disease, stroke, heart disease, peripheral neuropathy, and kidney problems. This has driven ongoing research into blood sugar management through diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits.
In a classic study, participants performed single-leg exercises. Blood sugar levels in both the active and resting legs were measured afterward. Results showed the exercised leg absorbed more glucose, and this effect lasted for several hours. Dr. Wang notes the metabolic significance: after meals, when insulin rises, blood sugar is preferentially sent to previously active muscles to replenish glycogen, aiding recovery. He emphasizes that active muscle contraction is required to effectively lower blood sugar.
Regarding leg shaking, Dr. Wang explains that each muscle fiber contracts and relaxes independently, increasing glucose uptake for hours. “By this principle, fidgeting does affect blood sugar,” he says, but the limited number of fibers involved means the effect is modest.
