Scheduled for Research Coordinating Board Poster Session II, Thursday, April 1, 2004, 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM, Convention Center: Exhibit Hall Poster Session


An Evaluation of How Dietary Restrictions Affect Exercise Levels in Adolescents with Hypoglycemia

Robert Lindsey, Stefanie Basinger, Seantell Dorsey and Michelle Owen, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC

Very little research has been conducted on finding an adequate diet for children who are very active but have to battle with hypoglycemia. A high protein diet has been proven effective to eliminate most symptoms and occurrences of hypoglycemia, but does not provide an effective source of energy necessary to participate in endurance related exercises. The purpose of this study was to determine whether different diets has a significant effect on the exercise performance levels and the perceived level of exertion of adolescents with hypoglycemia. The subjects were children, ages ranging from 9-18, who have hypoglycemia and participate in at least one sport a pear. Pre and Post heart rates and blood glucose levels were measured. Each subject also recorded dietary intake and activity levels throughout the study. The subjects were restricted to a high protein diet during the first week of the study and followed the recommended daily nutritional allowances for the second week of the study. Results from the study indicated that the protein diet did not provide and adequate amount of energy to participate in endurance activities. Subjects were able to do a greater amount of exercises such as push-ups and sit-ups when they were on a balanced diet. Recommendations from this study suggest that youth athletes with hypoglycemia who participate in sports need to adhere to a diet that will provide an adequate source of energy for optimal performance.

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