2.4. Experimental Design
INSULIN SENSITIVITY
Using a randomised cross-over design, each participant completed two, 5.5 h experimental conditions in a controlled laboratory setting: breakfast omission (BO) and breakfast consumption (BC). The conditions were completed in a random, counter-balanced order determined using a computer-based random number generator. VM and RBC generated the random allocation sequence, enrolled the participants, and assigned participants to the experimental conditions. With the assistance of a parent or primary caregiver, the girls were asked to record their weighted food and drink intake, refraining from caffeine, in the 48 h period before their first experimental condition using a weighed food diary and digital scales (Salter, 1036BKSSDR, HoMedics Group Ltd., Kent, UK). The girls were then asked to replicate this diet before their second experimental condition. Due to the potential for acute physical activity to enhance glucose control and insulin sensitivity among adolescents [The experimental conditions started after an overnight fast and a 20 min rest at ≈08:15. First, an expired gas sample was collected for the estimation of resting metabolic rate (RMR) and substrate oxidation [