The effect of long-term strength training on serum levels of betatrophin and irisin in elderly men with type 2 diabetes

Background. The irisin and betatrophin hormones are involved in insulin resistance. Considering the muscle weakness of elderly diabetics, this study aimed to investigate the effect of 21 weeks of strength training on betatrophin and irisin serum levels in type 2 diabetic elderly men. Methods. This semi-experimental study was conducted on type 2 diabetic men with an average age of 70.85±2.90 years. The strength training protocol was performed twice a week for 21 weeks. The exercises consisted of three stages: 1- muscle endurance, 2- muscle hypertrophy, and 3- maximum strength training. Fasting blood glucose levels and serum levels of insulin, betatrophin, and irisin were measured in two phases before and after the exercises. Results. The serum levels of insulin, irisin, and betatrophin in the diabetes control group were lower than in the healthy group (P<0.05) and 21 weeks of strength training increased the serum levels of insulin, irisin, and betatrophin, and decreased body weight and fasting blood glucose levels in elderly diabetic men compared to the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion. Strength training improved metabolic disorders in diabetics and increased secretion of irisin and betatrophin following exercise which indicated that exercise may have a protective mechanism in diabetes. Practical Implications. Stationary movements by performing strength activities, through the development of skeletal muscles of diabetics, improve insulin sensitivity and harvest more glucose in the body. In addition, these exercises can be a protective mechanism to prevent or delay the complications of type 2 diabetes by increasing irisin and betatrophin levels.