Exercise for heart

A study could help doctors determine how much exercise, obese and non-obese children need.

A new study could help doctors determine how much exercise, obese and non-obese children need to remain healthy and avoid cardiovascular disease.

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The study which was presented at the 86th Annual Meeting of The Endocrine Society, held in New Orleans, indicated that severely obese kids are at risk for developing cardiovascular disease, but the correct amount of regular exercise could improve this condition.

The researchers studied growth, weight, blood pressure, heart rate and blood in sixteen obese children with an average body mass index (BMI) of more than 26.

They also used a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and measured CO2 release to identify the anaerobic threshold, or level of exercise that burns the maximum amount of fat, for each subject. Researchers also measured the corresponding heart rate to this level.

They found that there is a direct correlation between high BMI and poor cardiovascular state in the children. They also noted that physical activity close to the optimal fat consumption rate can improve metabolic and cardiovascular health in obese children.