This ADA member-exclusive recorded webinar explores both heat and cold therapy as potential approaches for diabetes prevention and management. The panelists discuss how heat therapy activates heat shock proteins, modulates insulin action, reduces inflammation, and enhances mitochondrial function, while cold exposure influences thermogenesis and metabolic health. The session also addresses safety considerations and practical applications of each therapy. To provide a comprehensive perspective, the discussion begins with heat therapy before transitioning to cold exposure. The panel shares five actionable tips for supporting professionals and people with diabetes, as well as hosts a Q&A session at the end of the webinar.

The session is a part of the Hands On: Tips to Improve Diabetes Care webinar series available exclusively to ADA professional members and presented by the ADA’s Behavioral Medicine & Psychology, Diabetes in Primary Care, Exercise Physiology, and Diabetes Technology Interest Groups—supported by funding from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.

• Recall how heat can be used as an alternative therapy to exercise to improve mitochondrial function and glucose regulation 
• Identify different heat therapy modalities 
• Identify the effect of cold temperature on total energy expenditure
• Recognize the association between active brown adipose tissue and age, obesity and physical activity