The effects of tai chi qigong exercise on plasma glucose levels and health status of postpartum Thai women with type 2 diabetes

Abstract Background Postpartum women with type 2 diabetes are at risk of developing cardiovascular complications. Tai chi qigong is one kind of exercise considered to be effective in improving glycaemic control. However, little is known about the health benefits for postpartum women. Objectives This randomised controlled trial was carried out to investigate the effect of tai chi qigong exercise on plasma glucose levels and health status of postpartum women with type 2 diabetes. Methods Sixty‐four participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group ( n =32) and control group ( n =32). Participants in the intervention group practised a 50‐min tai chi qigong exercise programme, three times a week for 12 weeks during the period of 3–6 months postpartum. The control group received usual care. Results A statistically significant reduction in fasting plasma glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin and blood pressure were seen in the intervention group when compared with the control group ( P <0.05) at 12 weeks. Mean fasting plasma glucose in the intervention and control groups at 12 weeks were 120.19 (standard deviation ( SD )=17.51) mg/dl and 129.88 ( SD =15.23) mg/dl, respectively. There were no significant between‐group differences in body‐weight or body‐mass index at trial completion. Conclusions Tai chi qigong exercise improved glycaemic control and blood pressure in postpartum women with type 2 diabetes. Its use should therefore be considered in clinical and community health services.