POST BREAKFAST RESISTANCE EXERCISE AND REDOX STATUS RESPONSES IN PATIENTS WITH BETA THALASSEMIA MAJOR EXHIBITING INSULIN RESISTANCE

Abstract

Beta-thalassemia major is an inherited hemoglobin disorder that manifests within the first few months of life. Especially insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus are common consequences of iron overload in the pancreas. PURPOSE: To examine whether a session of resistance exercise can affect the redox status and improve postprandial hyperglycaemia in patients with beta-thalassemia major exhibiting insulin resistance. METHODS: Six patients (weight: 66.0 + 16.6 kg, body fat: 37.6 + 5.1 %, SBP: 104.5 + 9.7 mmHg, DBP: 67.5 + mmHg) underwent two trials (exercise and control) following breakfast meal ingestion, in a counterbalance order, separated by at least three days. In exercise trial, patients performed chest and leg press (3 sets of 10 maximal repetitions), while in control trial they rested. Blood samples were obtained in both trials: pre-meal, 45 min post-meal, immediately post, 1 hour post, 2 hours post and 24 hours post. Blood was analysed for TBARS, catalase, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glucose. RESULTS: No time or condition interaction was found for TBARS, catalase and TAC (Table 1). Blood glucose levels increased significantly following breakfast meal ingestion and were not differed between trials at the same time points. Table 1: Redox and glucose responses following a post-breakfast resistance exercise session CONCLUSIONS: A session of resistance training consisting of two major muscle exercises is not enough to influence changes in redox status or glucose metabolism in patients with beta-thalassemia major exhibiting insulin resistance. Supported by the Postgraduate Program of Study “Exercise & Health: Testing & Prescription”, School of P.E. & Sports Science, University of Thessaly, GREECE