A Model-Based Approach for Glucose Control via Physical Activity

The role played by physical activity in slowing down the progression of type-2 diabetes is well recognized. However, except for general clinical guidelines, quantitative real-time estimates of the recommended amount of physical activity, based on the evolving individual conditions, are still missing in the literature. The aim of this work is to provide a control-theoretical formulation of the exercise encoding all the exercise-related features (intensity, duration, period). Specifically, we design a feedback law in terms of recommended physical activity, following a model predictive control approach, based on a widespread compact diabetes progression model, suitably modified to account for the long-term effects of regular exercise. Preliminary simulations show promising results, well aligned with clinical evidence. These findings can be the basis for further validation of the control law on high-dimensional diabetes progression models to ultimately translate the predictions of the controller into meaningful recommendations.