Diet and Exercise Healthful for Overweight Children

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Effect of a short-term diet and exercise intervention on metabolic syndrome in overweight children, by A.K. Chen and colleagues. Metabolism 55:871-878, 2006.

What is the problem and what is known about it so far?

Obesity (being seriously overweight) is a growing problem in America. Obesity is leading to more people with diabetes and heart problems.

Why did the researchers do this particular study?

The researchers wanted to study the short-term effects of increased physical activity and a healthy diet on diabetes-related problems (such as high blood pressure, high glucose levels, overweight, and high cholesterol levels) and the likelihood that a person will get cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) disease.

Who was studied?

The study included 16 kids between 10 and 16 years of age.

How was the study done?

During a two-week period, the participants were fed a low-fat, high-fiber diet and put on a supervised program of 2 to 2.5 hours of exercise per day. Each participant had a physical exam and blood samples taken for lab tests at the beginning and end of the study.

What did the researchers find?

The diet and exercise program improved the body's ability to handle glucose and insulin, lowered blood pressure, improved body mass index (BMI, a way of measuring weight in relation to height), and lowered levels of fats in the blood.

What were the limitations of the study?

This was a small study with only 16 people, and they were followed for only two weeks. Following a larger group of people for a longer period of time may lead to different results. Also, this was an intense program that was closely monitored by professionals. It may be hard for people to follow this sort of program on their own.

What are the implications of the study?

A careful, short-term program of physical activity and good dietary habits can improve the health of overweight kids.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Diabetes Information for Parents and Kids

Padres y Jóvenes

Diabetes Free Kids