Acute Effect of Height-Adjustable Workstations on Blood Glucose Levels in Women With Impaired Fasting Glucose Levels While Working: A Pilot Study

Transl J Am Coll Sports Med. 2021 Fall;6(4):e000171. doi: 10.1249/tjx.0000000000000171. Epub 2021 Aug 27.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the effect on continuously monitored blood glucose (CGM) among participants with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) who used a height-adjustable desk while working.

Methods: The study was a repeated measures pilot study in overweight or obese women who had IFG (blood glucose [BG] >100 mg/dL) and a sedentary job. Blood glucose was monitored with CGM devices during two 1-week periods at work; 1 week in the seated position and 1 week using alternate bouts of sitting and standing (by adjusting their desks) throughout the workday.

Results: Ten women completed the study. Sedentary time significantly predicted BG independently of diet and overall physical activity (P=.02). Dietary carbohydrates, protein, and fat were significant predictors of BG (P<.001).

Conclusions: Sedentary time is a strong predictor of increased BG in women with IFG and a sedentary job.

Keywords: blood glucose; obesity; overweight; sedentary; sitting; standing; work.