High-intensity aerobic training improves endothelium-dependent vasodilation in patients with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to compare the effect of physical exercise program on the endothelial function of patients with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus.MethodsPatients were randomized for high intensity aerobic training (HI: 80% maximum heart rate, n = 10), low intensity aerobic training (LI: 55% of maximum heart rate, n = 10) and control (n = 11). Before and after 6 weeks of training, subjects performed the maximal exercise test and a study of the endothelial function, through a high resolution ultrasound of the brachial artery, which was assessed after reactive hyperemia (endothelium dependent vasodilation) and nitrate administration (endothelium independent vasodilation).ResultsA total of 31 patients with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus were studied, with mean age of 58 ± 6 years, The percentage diameter difference of the vessel after hyperemia was significantly higher for the high intensity group (HI before 2.52 ± 2.85% and after 31.81 ± 12.21%; LI before 3.23 ± 3.52% and after 20.61 ± 7.76%; controls before 3.56 ± 2.33% and after 2.43 ± 2.14%; p < 0.05).ConclusionsHigh intensity aerobic training improved the functional capability and endothelium dependent vasodilator response, but it does not improve the endothelium independent vasodilation in patients with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus.