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Lipid-lipoproteins in children: an exercise dose-response study
Keith Tolfrey1, Andrew M Jones, Ian G Campbell
1Department of Exercise and Sport Science, Institute for Biophysical and Clinical Research into Human Movement, Manchester Metropolitan University, Alsager, United Kingdom. k.tolfrey@mmu.ac.uk
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|April 13, 2004
Summary
Twelve weeks of aerobic exercise did not significantly alter the lipid-lipoprotein profile in pre- and early-pubertal children. Insufficient exercise volume or desirable baseline levels may explain the lack of change in cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Exercise Science
- Cardiovascular Health
- Lipid Metabolism
Background:
- Childhood obesity and cardiovascular disease risk factors are growing concerns.
- Understanding the impact of exercise on pediatric lipid profiles is crucial for preventative health strategies.
- Pre- and early-pubertal stages are critical periods for establishing lifelong health habits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of varying exercise volumes on the lipid-lipoprotein profiles of pre- and early-pubertal children.
- To determine if increased energy expenditure through aerobic training influences triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels.
- To assess changes in calculated lipids like low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and cholesterol ratios.
Main Methods:
- A 12-week randomized controlled trial involving 34 pre- and early-pubertal children.
- Two exercise groups: LOW (422 kJ/kg) and MOD (586 kJ/kg) energy expenditure, three times weekly.
- Measurements of plasma TG, TC, HDL-C, and calculated LDL-C, TC/HDL-C, and LDL-C/HDL-C at baseline and post-intervention.
Main Results:
- No significant group mean changes in lipid-lipoprotein concentrations were observed in either the LOW or MOD exercise groups.
- Dietary intake, habitual physical activity, and body composition remained stable throughout the intervention.
- A trend towards increased peak VO2 was noted in the LOW group (P=0.07), suggesting some cardiorespiratory improvement.
Conclusions:
- Aerobic exercise training with additional energy expenditures of 422 or 586 kJ/kg over 12 weeks did not significantly alter lipid-lipoprotein profiles in this pediatric cohort.
- The lack of significant changes may be attributed to insufficient exercise volume, desirable baseline lipid levels, or a combination of factors.
- Further research with higher exercise volumes or longer durations may be needed to elicit significant changes in pediatric lipid profiles.