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Children in groups with less physical activity per week had higher HbA1c levels than those who engaged in more physical activity. When the researchers considered age, BMI z score, sex, physical activity, dosage of insulin taken by the patient to control blood glucose and how long the patient had type 1 diabetes, level of physical activity remained one of the most important factors associated with HbA1c level. In girls but not in boys, children who exercised more frequently had lower BMI z score, and in boys but not in girls less physical activity was associated with a higher insulin dosage. Physical activity had no influence on the number of patients who experienced severe hypoglycemia or hypoglycemia with loss of consciousness.

"Regular physical activity should be recommended in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus," the authors conclude. "Regular physical activity results in better control of glycemia, including a lower HbA1c level and, in female patients, lower BMI. The risk for severe hypoglycemia or hypoglycemia with loss of consciousness or seizure is not elevated in pediatric patients with a high frequency of regular physical activity."

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Contact: Antje Herbst, M.D.
herbstantje@web.de
JAMA and Archives Journals
5-Jun-2006