Maintaining Muscle Mass Key to Diabetes Management, Experts Warn of Warning Signs

Managing diabetes extends beyond monitoring blood sugar, diet, and medication; preserving muscle mass is equally vital, according to nutritionist Hsueh Hsiao-ching. She highlights that declining muscle strength and function can serve as critical warning signs for diabetic patients.

Hsueh points to specific indicators such as a weakening grip, a noticeable slowdown in walking speed, and increased difficulty when rising from a chair. These symptoms, she explains, suggest a decline in muscle strength and overall physical function. Even individuals with a high Body Mass Index (BMI) or higher weight may be at risk of sarcopenic obesity, a condition where low muscle mass is masked by excess body fat.

Recent expert consensus, published in "Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice" in May 2026, defines sarcopenia not merely as reduced muscle mass but also encompassing decreased muscle strength and physical function. For individuals with Type 2 diabetes, factors like insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and prolonged high blood sugar levels can accelerate muscle degeneration.

To combat this, Hsueh advises a proactive approach. This includes ensuring adequate protein intake at every meal, reducing but not eliminating carbohydrates, incorporating resistance training (such as elastic band exercises, chair squats, and wall push-ups) into their routine, and being mindful of the three key warning signs. She also stresses that a high BMI does not guarantee sufficient muscle mass and that a holistic assessment of body composition, muscle strength, and physical function is necessary. Patients should consult healthcare professionals before making significant changes to their diet or exercise regimen, especially if they have underlying health conditions.