Impact of resistance exercise in type 1 diabetes pediatric patients

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune condition whose prevalence is prominent in children and adolescents, resulting in insulin deficiency with a potential for long-term complications induced by glucotoxicity. As an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attack insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading up to complete or near-complete inability to control the blood glucose levels independently. The lack of glycemic control calls for lifelong exogenous insulin administration in conjunction with careful monitoring to control blood sugar levels and prevent acute and chronic health issues complications. Regular physical activity, notably resistance exercise (RE), may be beneficial in the glycemic management of this population, enhancement of muscle strength, and general health for the growing, development and maturation in children. The evidence depicting its benefits and safeguard for RE in pediatric T1DM patients remains underexamined. This mini-review seeks to synthesize qualitatively the current evidence on RE regarding its global effects on the T1DM in children. A search for peer-reviewed papers is carried out through primary databases, centering on publications that examined the physiological, metabolic, and psychosocial consequences of RE in children with T1DM. Emerging evidence indicates that RE is one potential method of safe and efficacious intervention to improve glycemic management, physical capacity, and quality of life. However, there is still some reluctance to this type of training in the pediatric population. The available research has not only refuted the belief that strength training was contraindicated in the pediatric population but also recommends its systematic practice to enjoy its benefits on the three spheres of health. Nevertheless, methodological differences and small population studies pose challenges to drawing firm conclusions. The review underscores other areas, including the need for standardizing protocols for including patients such as follow-ups and greater considerations for psychosocial effects of RE in this population. This minireview underlines the importance of RE in a global approach to pediatric diabetes care by providing practical insight for both clinicians and researchers.

Keywords: Type 1 diabetes; Strength training; Children; Glycemic control

Core Tip: Progressive resistance training protocols in pediatric diabetes not only enhance muscular performance but also offer secondary health benefits. Although the effects of strength training on glycemic control outcomes remain variable there is a trend toward improvement. Furthermore, it can act as a foundational stimulus to encourage greater overall physical activity, which may further support glycemic regulation. Additional benefits include increased strength, improved posture, and enhanced motor control.