Aerobic training reduces pancreatic fat content and improves β‐cell function: A randomized controlled trial using IDEAL‐IQ magnetic resonance imaging

Abstract Aims To explore the effects of six months of moderate‐intensity aerobic exercise on pancreatic fat content and its impact on β‐cell function. Materials and Methods A total of 106 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were randomized to either a moderate‐intensity aerobic training group (three times a week, including 5 min warm‐up, 50 min aerobic dancing, and 5 min relaxation, n = 53) or control group ( n = 53) with 6‐month intervention. The primary endpoint was change in pancreatic fat content. An intention‐to‐treat analysis was conducted. Results Eighty‐six patients completed the study with 43 patients in the aerobic training group. The average age, HbA1c, and pancreatic fat content for all participants (106 patients) were 66.39 ± 5.59 years, 7.05 ± 1.24%, and 10.35 ± 9.20%, respectively. Nearly half (49.06%) of patients were males. Subjects in the aerobic training group saw a significant reduction in pancreatic fat content when compared to controls ( p = 0.001). In logistic regression models containing age, diabetes duration, change in BMI, smoking/drinking status, changes in lipid indices, and other abdominal fat content, only reduction in pancreatic fat content ( p < 0.05) was an independent protective factor for β‐cell function and HbA1c. Conclusions Six months of moderate‐intensity aerobic training significantly reduced the pancreatic fat content. The reduction of pancreatic fat content was an independent protective factor for β‐cell function and HbA1c.