Celebrating the Lunar New Year with outings and family visits may offer more than just cultural and social enjoyment — it could also help lower the risk of developing diabetes later in life. Dr Liu Yao-Zeng, a weight-loss specialist, explained that while diet and exercise are commonly discussed in diabetes prevention, “social interaction” also plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar.
A large-scale study published in Nature Human Behaviour examined data from 42,062 participants in the UK Biobank, with an average age of 56.4, over a 14-year period. Researchers defined “social isolation” as meeting at least two of the following: living alone, having social contact less than once a month, and attending social activities less than once a week.
The study revealed that 175 plasma proteins were significantly associated with long-term isolation, with over half linked to risks of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Of particular note, a protein group involved in metabolism, known as the “M8 module,” was strongly correlated with diabetes risk, showing more than double the likelihood (2.14 times) of developing the disease compared to socially active individuals.
Dr Liu highlighted that as people age and their social circles shrink, staying home and limiting interaction can negatively affect metabolic balance, even if diet is otherwise healthy. Social engagement helps regulate inflammation, antiviral responses, and metabolic mechanisms. Prolonged isolation can repeatedly trigger stress responses, leading to chronic inflammation and increased risk of metabolic diseases.
To reap the benefits of social interaction, Dr Liu recommends making the most of the Lunar New Year period through “pro-social activities” like visiting relatives or joining family outings. Even small efforts, he says, can improve health and counteract the physiological effects of long-term isolation.
For those who prefer to avoid crowded events, Dr Liu suggests three simple alternatives:
- Daily post-meal walks: Take a short stroll with family around the neighborhood or local park, greeting neighbors and exchanging a few words — the key is getting outside and interacting.
- Invite friends and family home: If mobility or weather limits outings, hosting visitors at home still provides meaningful face-to-face engagement.
- Maintain dietary balance: Social gatherings shouldn’t mean unrestricted eating. Follow a meal order of water, protein, vegetables, rice, and fruit, limit sweets, and ensure adequate vegetables and protein to prevent blood sugar spikes.
Dr Liu also cautioned that those with diabetes, hypertension, or other metabolic issues should continue monitoring their health during the holiday. Significant fluctuations in blood sugar, blood pressure, or sudden weight gain should prompt a timely medical review to prevent short-term holiday indulgence from becoming a long-term health setback.
Engaging socially this Lunar New Year may not only strengthen family bonds but also provide measurable benefits for metabolic health, potentially lowering the risk of future diabetes.
