The effects of aerobic exercise on inflammatory factors, insulin resistance and endothelial function in overweight or obese children

Abstract

Objective To investigate the effects of 24 weeks of aerobic exercise on inflammatory factors, insulin resistance and endothelial function among overweight or obese children. Methods Eighty overweight or obese children were randomly divided into a control group and an exercise group, each of 40. Both groups took part in physical activity organized by a school (twice/week, 45 min/time), while the exercise group performed an additional 24-week aerobic exercise program. Blood pressure, heart rate, body weight, body mass index (BMI), body composition, flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery, serum C-reactive protein (CRP), lipids, glucose and insulin were monitored. Insulin resistance indices (IRIs) were estimated from a homeostatic model assessment. Results A baseline positive correlation was found between serum CRP and IRI which remained significant after adjusting the baseline variables. After the intervention, the average FMD of the exercise group had increased significantly while no significant improvement was found in the control group. However, after the intervention, no significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of the other measurements. Conclusions The serum CRP of overweight/obese children is independently associated with IRI. Twenty-four weeks of aerobic exercise can improve vascular endothelial function. Key words: Aerobic exercise; Overweight; Obesity; Children; Inflammatory factors; Insulin resistance; Endothelium function