Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What is a common recommendation for improving glycemic control in children with diabetes during physical activity?

1. Avoid all exercise.

2. Limit exercise to weekends.

3. Participate in 30 minutes every other day.

4. Engage in 60 minutes most days of the week.

The correct answer is: Engage in 60 minutes most days of the week.

Engaging in 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week is recognized as a critical recommendation for improving glycemic control in children with diabetes. Regular physical activity helps to enhance insulin sensitivity and can lead to better regulation of blood glucose levels. In children, exercise serves multiple purposes beyond physical health—it promotes healthy development, enhances mood, and fosters social interactions. For children with diabetes, it is particularly important to incorporate consistent physical activity, as it helps in maintaining appropriate weight, improving overall fitness, and managing blood sugar levels. The 60-minute guideline aligns with recommendations from health organizations, which encourage daily physical activity as a standard practice for children. The other suggestions, such as avoiding exercise altogether or limiting it to weekends, do not promote the same level of health benefits or glycemic improvement. These approaches could lead to missed opportunities for beneficial activity and may negatively affect blood glucose management over time.