To bathe, or not to bathe? (version 1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The effect of acute, passive heating on glucose tolerance in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomised, balanced crossover, control trial.
IRAS ID
249944
Contact name
Anthony Shepherd
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Portsmouth
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 1 days
Research summary
Individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus are at increased risk of damage from high blood
sugar after consuming a meal, which can lead to additional heart and vessel
complications. Typically treatment for these individuals either involves using drugs to
control blood sugar or implementation of an exercise or dietary plan. Unfortunately,
drugs to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus are expensive and exercise and dietary plans are
not always strictly followed. Taking a hot bath has the potential to help with glucose
uptake via increased blood flow to the peripheries and changes in biochemical markers.
Unlike using drugs, taking a hot bath is inexpensive and maybe easier and more time
effective than exercise. Therefore, this study aims to assess blood sugar levels and
other health benefits of taking a hot bath in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This
study will also help us inform the design of a larger and longer term investigation into the
possible use and health benefits of hot baths in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus.REC name
South Central - Hampshire A Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/SC/0581
Date of REC Opinion
24 Dec 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion