P-471: Effect of laughter yoga and clapping on glycemic control and quality of life in adolescents with type 1 diabetes in Delhi
P Kumar, N Baquer, J SinghAbstract
Introduction
Laughter yoga and clapping exercises may improve postprandial glycemic control and QOL in adolescents with T1D. Integration of structured mind–body interventions alongside standard care may enhance pediatric diabetes management.
Objectives
This study aimed to determine the impact of laughter yoga therapy and clapping exercises on blood glucose levels, insulin, glucose tolerance, HbA1c, and Quality of Life (QOL) in adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) from rural areas of the Delhi metropolitan region.
Methods
This study enrolled 62 school-aged children and adolescents (ages 7–17 years) with T1D. Participants were divided into an intervention group (n=31) and a control group (n=31). Baseline blood glucose was measured upon arrival following a standard 250 kcal meal. The intervention group participated in a daily program consisting of a 30-minute educational lecture followed by a 30-minute session of laughter yoga (respiratory laughing and fun exercises) and intense clapping workouts for one month. Clinical parameters evaluated included fasting glucose, postprandial glucose (120 minutes), insulin, HbA1c, blood pressure, and QOL indicators.
Results
Postprandial blood glucose levels were measured at 120 minutes. The intervention group demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect on the expected postprandial increase in blood glucose compared to the control group (P<0.05). After the one-month intervention, fasting blood glucose and insulin levels in the laughter yoga group trended closer to normal ranges, accompanied by a reported increase in daily functional efficiency. These results highlight that successful pediatric diabetes management requires not only anti-diabetic medications but also holistic psychological support, lifestyle education, and stress-reduction techniques.
Conclusions
Laughter yoga and clapping exercises may improve postprandial glycemic control and QOL in adolescents with T1D. Integration of structured mind–body interventions alongside standard care may enhance pediatric diabetes management.