Impact Of A Sports And Activity Program On A 14-year-old Athlete With New Onset T1D

Physical activity and exercise play a role in improving blood glucose (BG), lipid metabolism, sleep, mood, overall disease management, and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) have been shown to be more sedentary, less physically active, and have lower cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) when compared to their healthy peers. A clinical sports and activity program (CSAP) may help improve physical fitness and overall health in individuals with T1D. PURPOSE: To examine the effects of a CSAP on body composition, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio, motor proficiency, flexibility, VO2 max, resting metabolic rate (RMR), and maximal grip strength in a 14-year-old male athlete with new onset T1D. METHODS: Data were collected during a CSAP involving physical fitness testing, nutrition logs and a physical activity questionnaire, and consultation with a registered dietitian and diabetes educator. Body composition, BMI, motor proficiency, flexibility, VO2 max, RMR, and maximal grip strength data were collected at baseline and 3-month follow-up. A one-sample t-test was performed. RESULTS: Preliminary analysis showed statistical significant increases for body composition [body fat percentage (6.3-8.9%; p = 0.054), total body water (40.2-41.0 kg; p = 0.003), lean body mass (55.0-56.2 kg; p = 0.004), skeletal muscle mass (30.5-31.5 kg; p = 0.005)], BMI (19.6-20.7; p = 0.009), motor proficiency standard score (48-55; p = 0.022), VO2 max (44.4-58.3 ml/kg/min; p = 0.043), RMR (1772-1866 kcal/day; p = 0.008), and max grip strength (32-43 kg; p = 0.046). A statistically significant decrease in flexibility (32.5-29.5 cm; p = 0.015) was also noted. CONCLUSION: Results show a CSAP can have a positive impact on an athlete with new onset T1D. Future investigations should continue to explore the effects of a CSAP on individuals with T1D participating in sport and activity. Norton Children's Hospital Foundation