Moderate-Intensity Exercise Improves Body Composition and Improves Physiological Markers of Stress in HIV-Infected Men

Abstract

HIV/AIDS and its treatment often alter body composition and result in poorer physical functioning. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a moderate-intensity exercise program on body composition and the hormones and cytokines associated with adverse health outcomes. HIV-infected males (N = 111) were randomized to an exercise group (EX) who completed 6 weeks of moderate-intensity exercise training, or to a nonintervention control group (CON). In pre- and postintervention, body composition was estimated via DXA, peak strength was assessed, and resting blood samples were obtained. There was a decrease in salivary cortisol at wake (P = 0.025) in the EX and a trend (P = 0.07) for a decrease 1 hour after waking. The EX had a significant increase in lean tissue mass (LTM) (P < 0.001) following the intervention. Those in the EX below median body fat (20%) increased LTM (P = 0.014) only, while those above 20% decreased fat mass (P = 0.02), total fat (N = 0.009), and trunk fat (P = 0.001), while also increasing LTM (P = 0.027). Peak strength increased between 14% and 28% on all exercises in the EX group. These data indicate that 6 weeks of moderate-intensity exercise training can decrease salivary cortisol levels, improve physical performance, and improve body composition in HIV-infected men.

A pilot study of brisk walking in sedentary combination antiretroviral treatment (cART)- treated patients: benefit on soluble and cell inflammatory markers

“…However, the anti-inflammatory effect of exercise in HIV infection has been rarely addressed in clinical studies. Reductions of hsCRP, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-18, a cytokine released by adipocytes and other cell types, were observed in a 16-week study of aerobic or resistance training performed at variable intensity [22], but no of IL-6 after 6 weeks of aerobic plus resistance moderate intensity exercise [27]. …”

Effects of aerobic and resistance exercise alone or combined on strength and hormone outcomes for people living with HIV. A meta-analysis

“…Two studies reported testosterone [57,59], three studies free testosterone [57–59] and two studies interleukin-6 and interleukin-1β [58,60]. All studies reported that samples were taken in a fasting state at the same time of day and in a rested state.…”

Associations between physical activity and sedentary time on components of metabolic syndrome among adults with HIV

“…Numerous prospective cohort studies have repeatedly shown that higher levels of physical activity are associated with reduced incidence of CVD, diabetes, certain cancers, all-cause mortality, and many other chronic conditions (Bassuk & Manson, 2005; Blair et al, 1996; Church et al, 2002; Jaggers et al, 2009; Warburton et al, 2006). Emerging data are showing similar benefits among HIV patients (Bopp et al, 2004; Dudgeon et al, 2012; Hand et al, 2008; Hand, Lyerly, Jaggers, & Dudgeon, 2009). However, no one has focused specifically on the components of MetSyn when studying the effects of physical activity among PLWHA.…”