Effect of Regular Swimming Training and Healthy Dietary Pattern on Endocrine-Related Indicators in Autism Spectrum Disorder – A New Insight

Abstract

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neuro-developmental disorder that is mainly characterized by social interaction impairments. Health-related challenges including weight abnormalities and hormonal impairment seem to have a higher prevalence in ASD individuals. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of aquatic training and diet modification according to recommended guidelines on endocrine-related indicators including growth parameters and IGF-1 in teenage and young individuals with ASD. Methods: 5 individuals diagnosed with ASD (age = 14.86 ± 1.22) participated in regular aquatic sessions for 12 weeks, 2 sessions per week which lasted 60 min in each session. Body weight, stature, body mass index (BMI), and IGF-1 were measured before and after the study. Caregivers and healthcare centers to which the participants were referred for their therapeutic purposes, were given booklets and brochures regarding nutritional recommendations published by health authorities. Results: All of the participants were overweight (BMI = 27.98 ± 1.44). There was a significant improvement in body weight, BMI, and IGF-1 levels after the study (p ≤0.05). Although, there was no significant improvement in dietary pattern (p = 0.3) despite reported improvements recorded by families regarding food variety and consumed food groups. Conclusion: Aquatic training and diet modification can improve growth and health-related indicators in individuals with ASD.