The control of diabetes in summer campers, with special reference to acetone bodies

Abstract

The present work was done to study the effect of camp life on the control of juvenile diabetes. Particular attention was paid to the role of exercise in the treatment of diabetes. Diurnal variations of blood glucose and acetone bodies, as well as those of glucosuria and ketonuria were recorded. Nine campers, aged 8-13 years, were studied during a two week period. All diabetics were considered labile or hyperlabile. After an initial control period the campers had plenty of exercise daily. Diurnal blood glucose levels and glueosuria did not improve during the camp, whereas the concentrations of blood acetone bodies decreased. In particular this was true for morning hyperketonaemia. Judged from this, the diabetic control improved during the camp. However, the overall control of diabetes did not become good. The roles of insulin, diet and exercise in the control of juvenile diabetics are discussed. © 1969 Springer-Verlag.