CYBERMED LIFE - ORGANIC  & NATURAL LIVING

Hypertension

Hypertension (HTN or HT), also known as high blood pressure (HBP), is a long-term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. High blood pressure usually does not cause symptoms. Long-term high blood pressure, however, is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, peripheral vascular disease, vision loss, chronic kidney disease, and dementia.

High blood pressure is classified as either primary (essential) high blood pressure or secondary high blood pressure. About 90–95% of cases are primary, defined as high blood pressure due to nonspecific lifestyle and genetic factors. Lifestyle factors that increase the risk include excess salt in the diet, excess body weight, smoking, and alcohol use. The remaining 5–10% of cases are categorized as secondary high blood pressure, defined as high blood pressure due to an identifiable cause, such as chronic kidney disease, narrowing of the kidney arteries, an endocrine disorder, or the use of birth control pills.

Blood pressure is expressed by two measurements, the systolic and diastolic pressures, which are the maximum and minimum pressures, respectively. For most adults, normal blood pressure at rest is within the range of 100–130 millimeters mercury (mmHg) systolic and 60–80 mmHg diastolic. For most adults, high blood pressure is present if the resting blood pressure is persistently at or above 130/90 or 140/90 mmHg. Different numbers apply to children. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring over a 24-hour period appears more accurate than office-based blood pressure measurement.

Lifestyle changes and medications can lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of health complications. Lifestyle changes include weight loss, decreased salt intake, physical exercise, and a healthy diet. If lifestyle changes are not sufficient then blood pressure medications are used. Up to three medications can control blood pressure in 90% of people. The treatment of moderately high arterial blood pressure (defined as >160/100 mmHg) with medications is associated with an improved life expectancy. The effect of treatment of blood pressure between 130/80 mmHg and 160/100 mmHg is less clear, with some reviews finding benefit and others finding unclear benefit. High blood pressure affects between 16 and 37% of the population globally. In 2010 hypertension was believed to have been a factor in 18% of all deaths (9.4 million globally).

  • Half of cosmetics contain dangerous chemical

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    <a href=Nearly half the cosmetics we use contain toxic chemicals that are linked to a range of serious health problems.

    PFAs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have been discovered in foundation creams, mascaras and lip products.

    Researchers at the University of Notre Dame analysed more than 200 cosmetics, and discovered that 56 percent of the foundation creams, 48 percent of lip products and 47 percent of mascaras contained high levels of fluorine, a ‘red flag’ indicator of PFA use.

  • A randomized 9-month study of blood pressure and body fat responses to aerobic training versus combined aerobic and resistance training in older men.

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    Abstract Title:

    A randomized 9-month study of blood pressure and body fat responses to aerobic training versus combined aerobic and resistance training in older men.

    Abstract Source:

    Exp Gerontol. 2013 Aug ;48(8):727-33. Epub 2013 Apr 26. PMID: 23628502

    Abstract Author(s):

    Nelson Sousa, Romeu Mendes, Catarina Abrantes, Jaime Sampaio, José Oliveira

    Article Affiliation:

    Nelson Sousa

    Abstract:

    This randomized study evaluated the impact of different exercise training modalities on blood pressure and body fat responses in apparently healthy older men. Forty-eight elderly men (aged 65-75 years) were randomly assigned to an aerobic training group (ATG, n=15), a combined aerobic and resistance training group (CTG, n=16), or a control group (n=17). Both exercise training programs were moderate-to-vigorous intensity, three days/week for 9-months. Strength, aerobic endurance, body fat and blood pressure were measured on five different occasions. The data were analyzed using a mixed-model ANOVA, and the independence between systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and group was tested. A significant main effect of group (p<0.001) was observed in strength and aerobic endurance, with higher performance observed in the CTG. A significant main effect of group (p<0.001) and time (p=0.029) was observed in body fat percentage, with a 2.3% decrease in CTG. A significant main effect of time was observed in SBP (p=0.005) and in DBP (p=0.011) for both ATG and CTG. Mean decreases in SBP and DBP, respectively, were 15 and 6 mmHg for ATG and 24 and 12 mmHg for CTG. There was a significant association for SBP (p=0.008) and DBP (p=0.005) in the CTG, with significant individual BP profile modifications. Both exercise-training programs reduce resting blood pressure. However, only the combined exercise training was effective at reducing body fat percentage; consequently, there were larger changes in blood pressure, which result in a significant reduction in hypertensive subjects.

  • A randomized 9-month study of blood pressure and body fat responses to aerobic training versus combined aerobic and resistance training in older men.

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    Abstract Title:

    A randomized 9-month study of blood pressure and body fat responses to aerobic training versus combined aerobic and resistance training in older men.

    Abstract Source:

    Exp Gerontol. 2013 Aug ;48(8):727-33. Epub 2013 Apr 26. PMID: 23628502

    Abstract Author(s):

    Nelson Sousa, Romeu Mendes, Catarina Abrantes, Jaime Sampaio, José Oliveira

    Article Affiliation:

    Nelson Sousa

    Abstract:

    This randomized study evaluated the impact of different exercise training modalities on blood pressure and body fat responses in apparently healthy older men. Forty-eight elderly men (aged 65-75 years) were randomly assigned to an aerobic training group (ATG, n=15), a combined aerobic and resistance training group (CTG, n=16), or a control group (n=17). Both exercise training programs were moderate-to-vigorous intensity, three days/week for 9-months. Strength, aerobic endurance, body fat and blood pressure were measured on five different occasions. The data were analyzed using a mixed-model ANOVA, and the independence between systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and group was tested. A significant main effect of group (p<0.001) was observed in strength and aerobic endurance, with higher performance observed in the CTG. A significant main effect of group (p<0.001) and time (p=0.029) was observed in body fat percentage, with a 2.3% decrease in CTG. A significant main effect of time was observed in SBP (p=0.005) and in DBP (p=0.011) for both ATG and CTG. Mean decreases in SBP and DBP, respectively, were 15 and 6 mmHg for ATG and 24 and 12 mmHg for CTG. There was a significant association for SBP (p=0.008) and DBP (p=0.005) in the CTG, with significant individual BP profile modifications. Both exercise-training programs reduce resting blood pressure. However, only the combined exercise training was effective at reducing body fat percentage; consequently, there were larger changes in blood pressure, which result in a significant reduction in hypertensive subjects.

  • A Randomized controlled trial of the effect of yoga and peer support on glycaemic outcomes in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a feasibility study. 📎

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    Abstract Title:

    A Randomized controlled trial of the effect of yoga and peer support on glycaemic outcomes in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a feasibility study.

    Abstract Source:

    BMC Complement Altern Med. 2017 Feb 7 ;17(1):100. Epub 2017 Feb 7. PMID: 28173786

    Abstract Author(s):

    Aswathy Sreedevi, Unnikrishnan Ambika Gopalakrishnan, Sundaram Karimassery Ramaiyer, Leelamoni Kamalamma

    Article Affiliation:

    Aswathy Sreedevi

    Abstract:

    BACKGROUND:Type two diabetes is a complex and demanding chronic disease and its impact in a state (Kerala) which leads India in terms of the number of people with Diabetes is profound. Though the male to female ratio among the people with diabetes is roughly equal, women are uniquely and more severely affected. Management of type two Diabetes requires considerable dexterity on the part of the patient to manage drugs, diet and exercise. Therefore, in a low middle-income country like India it is necessary to look at low cost interventions that can empower the patient and build on available resources to help manage diabetes. Hence, we studied the feasibility and effect of two low cost interventions; yoga and peer support on glycaemic and other outcomes among women with type two diabetes.

    METHODS:An open label parallel three armed randomized control trial was conducted among 124 recruited women with Diabetes for three months. Block randomization with a block length of six was carried out with each group having at least 41 women. In the Yoga arm, sessions by an instructor, consisting of a group of postures coordinated with breathing were conducted for an hour, two days a week. In the peer support arm each peer mentor after training visited 13-14 women with diabetes every week followed by a phone call. The meeting was about applying disease management or prevention plans in daily life.

    RESULTS:There was a trend in decline of fasting plasma glucose in the peer and yoga group and of glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) in the yoga group only, though not significant. A significant decrease was observed in diastolic blood pressure and hip circumference in the yoga group. The process indicated that most (80%) of the women in the yoga group attended classes regularly and 90% of the women in the peer group reported that peer mentoring was useful.

    CONCLUSION:The effect of yoga and peer support on glycaemic outcomes was incremental. Longer term studies are necessary to ascertain the benefits shown by this feasibility study.

    TRIAL REGISTRATION:CTRI/2011/12/002227 dated 14/12/2011.

  • A yoga intervention for type 2 diabetes risk reduction: a pilot randomized controlled trial. 📎

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    Abstract Title:

    A yoga intervention for type 2 diabetes risk reduction: a pilot randomized controlled trial.

    Abstract Source:

    BMC Complement Altern Med. 2014 ;14:212. Epub 2014 Jul 1. PMID: 24980650

    Abstract Author(s):

    Kelly A McDermott, Mohan Raghavendra Rao, Raghuram Nagarathna, Elizabeth J Murphy, Adam Burke, Ramarao Hongasandra Nagendra, Frederick M Hecht

    Article Affiliation:

    Kelly A McDermott

    Abstract:

    BACKGROUND:Type 2 diabetes is a major health problem in many countries including India. Yoga may be an effective type 2 diabetes prevention strategy in India, particularly given its cultural familiarity.

    METHODS:This was a parallel, randomized controlled pilot study to collect feasibility and preliminary efficacy data on yoga for diabetes risk factors among people at high risk of diabetes. Primary outcomes included: changes in BMI, waist circumference, fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, insulin, insulin resistance, blood pressure, and cholesterol. We also looked at measures of psychological well-being including changes in depression, anxiety, positive and negative affect and perceived stress. Forty-one participants with elevated fasting blood glucose in Bangalore, India were randomized to either yoga (n = 21) or a walking control (n = 20). Participants were asked to either attend yoga classes or complete monitored walking 3-6 days per week for eight weeks. Randomization and allocation was performed using computer-generated random numbers and group assignments delivered in sealed, opaque envelopes generated by off-site study staff. Data were analyzed based on intention to treat.

    RESULTS:This study was feasible in terms of recruitment, retention and adherence. In addition, yoga participants had significantly greater reductions in weight, waist circumference and BMI versus control (weight -0.8 ± 2.1 vs. 1.4 ± 3.6, p = 0.02; waist circumference -4.2 ± 4.8 vs. 0.7 ± 4.2, p < 0.01; BMI -0.2 ± 0.8 vs. 0.6 ± 1.6, p = 0.05). There were no between group differences in fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, insulin resistance or any other factors related to diabetes risk or psychological well-being. There were significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, anxiety, depression, negative affect and perceived stress in both the yoga intervention and walking control over the course of the study.

    CONCLUSION:Among Indians with elevated fasting blood glucose, we found that participation in an 8-week yoga intervention was feasible and resulted in greater weight loss and reduction in waist circumference when compared to a walking control. Yoga offers a promising lifestyle intervention for decreasing weight-related type 2 diabetes risk factors and potentially increasing psychological well-being.

    TRIAL REGISTRATION:ClinicalTrials.gov Identified NCT00090506.

  • Acupuncture Decreases Blood Pressure Related to Hypothalamus Functional Connectivity with Frontal Lobe, Cerebellum, and Insula: A Study of Instantaneous and Short-Term Acupuncture Treatment in Essential Hypertension.

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    Abstract Title:

    Acupuncture Decreases Blood Pressure Related to Hypothalamus Functional Connectivity with Frontal Lobe, Cerebellum, and Insula: A Study of Instantaneous and Short-Term Acupuncture Treatment in Essential Hypertension.

    Abstract Source:

    Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2016 ;2016:6908710. Epub 2016 Sep 4. PMID: 27688791

    Abstract Author(s):

    Yu Zheng, Jiping Zhang, Yanjie Wang, Yuying Wang, Yujun Lan, Shanshan Qu, Chunzhi Tang, Yong Huang

    Article Affiliation:

    Yu Zheng

    Abstract:

    The therapeutic effects of acupuncture in decreasing blood pressure are ambiguous and underlying acupuncture in hypertension treatment has not been investigated. Our objective was to observe the change of quality of life and compare the differences in brain functional connectivity by investigating instantaneous and short-term acupuncture treatment in essential hypertension patients. A total of 30 patients were randomly divided into the LR3 group and sham acupoint group. Subjects received resting-state fMRI among preacupuncture, postinstantaneous, and short-term acupuncture treatment in two groups. Hypothalamus was selected as the seed point to analyze the changes in connectivity. We found three kinds of results: (1) There was statistical difference in systolic blood pressure in LR3 group after the short-term treatment and before acupuncture. (2) Compared with sham acupoint, acupuncture at LR3 instantaneous effects in the functional connectivity with seed points was more concentrated in the frontal lobe. (3) Compared with instantaneous effects, acupuncture LR3 short-term effects in the functional connectivity with seed points had more regions in frontal lobe, cerebellum, and insula. These brain areas constituted a neural network structure with specific functions that could explain the mechanism of therapy in hypertension patients by LR3 acupoint.

  • Acupuncture lowers blood pressure in mild hypertension patients: A randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded pilot trial.

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    Abstract Title:

    Acupuncture lowers blood pressure in mild hypertension patients: A randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded pilot trial.

    Abstract Source:

    Complement Ther Med. 2015 Oct ;23(5):658-65. Epub 2015 Jul 15. PMID: 26365445

    Abstract Author(s):

    Yan Liu, Ji-Eun Park, Kyung-Min Shin, Minhee Lee, Hee Jung Jung, Ae-Ran Kim, So-Young Jung, Ho Ryong Yoo, Kwon O Sang, Sun-Mi Choi

    Article Affiliation:

    Yan Liu

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVES:To preliminarily assess the effects of acupuncture on prehypertension and stage I hypertension, and to provide data for further research.

    DESIGN:A randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded study with an 8-week intervention period and a 4-week follow-up.

    INTERVENTIONS:Participants were patients with systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 120-159mmHg or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of 80-99mmHg.Thirty participants were allocated to acupuncture group or untreated control group at a 1:1 ratio. The acupuncture group received standard acupuncture twice weekly for 8 weeks, and was followed-up for 4 weeks after treatment; the control group did not receive any type of anti-hypertensive treatment for 12 weeks.

    MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:Primary outcome measure was SBP and DBP at post-treatment. The secondary outcomes were SBP and DBP at follow-up; Euro Quality of life (EQ-5D), heart rate variability (HRV), body mass index (BMI), and blood lipid profile.

    RESULTS:DBP (-5.7mmHg; P=0.025), but not SBP (-6.0mmHg; P=0.123), was significantly different between groups at post-treatment. Both DBP (-7.8mmHg; P=0.004) and SBP (-8.6mmHg; P=0.031) were significantly different at follow-up. Among the HRV indices, only high frequency power was significantly different between groups at weeks 4 and 8 (P=0.047 and P=0.030, respectively). There were no differences between groups in EQ-5D, BMI or lipid profile.

    CONCLUSION:The results of this study show that acupuncture might lower blood pressure in prehypertension and stage I hypertension, and further RCT need 97 participants in each group. The effect of acupuncture on prehypertension and mild hypertension should be confirmed in larger studies.

    TRIAL REGISTRATION:KCT0000496.

  • Acupuncture-induced changes of vagal function in patients with depression: A preliminary sham-controlled study with press needles.

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    Abstract Title:

    Acupuncture-induced changes of vagal function in patients with depression: A preliminary sham-controlled study with press needles.

    Abstract Source:

    Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2015 Aug ;21(3):193-200. Epub 2015 Jul 6. PMID: 26256139

    Abstract Author(s):

    Yoshihiro Noda, Takuji Izuno, Yoshie Tsuchiya, Shunsuke Hayasaka, Kiiko Matsumoto, Hirohiko Murakami, Arata Ito, Yukari Shinse, Aya Suzuki, Motoaki Nakamura

    Article Affiliation:

    Yoshihiro Noda

    Abstract:

    To study the biological effects of acupuncture on depression, we hypothesized that acupuncture will exert its antidepressant effect through a bottom-up neuromodulation of the autonomic dysfunction in depression. The participants received press needle (PN) acupuncture for 72 h continuously in a sham-controlled design. Psychological assessments and Holter electrocardiography were performed before and after PN acupuncture. We evaluated their autonomic functions through the heart rate variability (HRV). As a result, following PN acupuncture participants showed significant improvement in the Beck's Depression Inventory scores (P = 0.031), systolic/diastolic blood pressures (P = 0.002/P = 0.011), and coefficient of variation of the R-R interval (P < 0.0001), compared to sham PN. The present findings showed PN acupuncture induced alterations in vagal function, blood pressure, and Beck's Depression Inventory scores. It was suggested that vagal stabilization effect by acupuncture may be associated with the therapeutic mechanism in depression.

  • Acupuncture-induced changes of vagal function in patients with depression: A preliminary sham-controlled study with press needles.

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    Abstract Title:

    Acupuncture-induced changes of vagal function in patients with depression: A preliminary sham-controlled study with press needles.

    Abstract Source:

    Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2015 Aug ;21(3):193-200. Epub 2015 Jul 6. PMID: 26256139

    Abstract Author(s):

    Yoshihiro Noda, Takuji Izuno, Yoshie Tsuchiya, Shunsuke Hayasaka, Kiiko Matsumoto, Hirohiko Murakami, Arata Ito, Yukari Shinse, Aya Suzuki, Motoaki Nakamura

    Article Affiliation:

    Yoshihiro Noda

    Abstract:

    To study the biological effects of acupuncture on depression, we hypothesized that acupuncture will exert its antidepressant effect through a bottom-up neuromodulation of the autonomic dysfunction in depression. The participants received press needle (PN) acupuncture for 72 h continuously in a sham-controlled design. Psychological assessments and Holter electrocardiography were performed before and after PN acupuncture. We evaluated their autonomic functions through the heart rate variability (HRV). As a result, following PN acupuncture participants showed significant improvement in the Beck's Depression Inventory scores (P = 0.031), systolic/diastolic blood pressures (P = 0.002/P = 0.011), and coefficient of variation of the R-R interval (P < 0.0001), compared to sham PN. The present findings showed PN acupuncture induced alterations in vagal function, blood pressure, and Beck's Depression Inventory scores. It was suggested that vagal stabilization effect by acupuncture may be associated with the therapeutic mechanism in depression.

  • Acute exercise protects against doxorubicin cardiotoxicity📎

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    Abstract Title:

    Acute exercise protects against doxorubicin cardiotoxicity.

    Abstract Source:

    Integr Cancer Ther. 2008 Sep;7(3):147-54. PMID: 18815146

    Abstract Author(s):

    Karen Y Wonders, David S Hydock, Carole M Schneider, Reid Hayward

    Article Affiliation:

    Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio, USA.

    Abstract:

    Numerous methods have been used to minimize the cardiotoxic effects of the chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin (DOX), and most have had limited success. Chronic endurance exercise has been shown to protect against DOX cardiotoxicity, but little is known regarding the effects of acute exercise on DOX-induced cardiac dysfunction.

    PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a single bout of acute endurance exercise on the cardiac dysfunction associated with DOX treatment.

    METHODS: Male Sprague-Dawley rats either performed an acute exercise bout on a motorized treadmill for 60 minutes at a maximal speed of 25 m/min with a 5% grade (EX) or remained sedentary (SED) 24 hours before receiving either a 15-mg/kg DOX bolus dose or saline (SAL). Cardiac function was then analyzed 5 days post injection using a Langendorff isolated perfused heart model. In addition, myocardial lipid peroxidation was analyzed as an indicator of oxidative stress.

    RESULTS: Doxorubicin treatment alone (SED+DOX) promoted a significant decline in end-systolic pressure (-35%), left ventricular developed pressure (-59%), and the maximal rate of left ventricular pressure development (-43%) as well as a 45% increase in lipid peroxidation products when compared with SED+SAL (P<.05). Acute exercise 24 hours before DOX treatment, however, had a cardioprotective effect, as end-systolic pressure, left ventricular developed pressure, and the maximal rate of left ventricular pressure development were significantly higher in EX+DOX compared with SED+DOX (P<.05) and EX+DOX had similar levels of lipid peroxidation products as SED+SAL

    CONCLUSIONS: An acute exercise bout performed 24 hours before DOX treatment protected against cardiac dysfunction, and this exercise-induced cardioprotection may partly be explained by a reduction in the generation of reactive oxygen species.

  • Aerobic exercise reduces blood pressure in resistant hypertension📎

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    Abstract Title:

    Aerobic exercise reduces blood pressure in resistant hypertension.

    Abstract Source:

    Hypertension. 2012 Sep ;60(3):653-8. Epub 2012 Jul 16. PMID: 22802220

    Abstract Author(s):

    Fernando Dimeo, Nikolaos Pagonas, Felix Seibert, Robert Arndt, Walter Zidek, Timm H Westhoff

    Article Affiliation:

    Charité-Campus Benjamin Franklin, Department of Sports Medicine, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12200 Berlin, Germany.

    Abstract:

    Regular physical exercise is broadly recommended by current European and American hypertension guidelines. It remains elusive, however, whether exercise leads to a reduction of blood pressure in resistant hypertension as well. The present randomized controlled trial examines the cardiovascular effects of aerobic exercise on resistant hypertension. Resistant hypertension was defined as a blood pressure≥140/90 mm Hg in spite of 3 antihypertensive agents or a blood pressure controlled by ≥4 antihypertensive agents. Fifty subjects with resistant hypertension were randomly assigned to participate or not to participate in an 8- to 12-week treadmill exercise program (target lactate, 2.0±0.5 mmol/L). Blood pressure was assessed by 24-hour monitoring. Arterial compliance and cardiac index were measured by pulse wave analysis. The training program was well tolerated by all of the patients. Exercise significantly decreased systolic and diastolic daytime ambulatory blood pressure by 6±12 and 3±7 mm Hg, respectively (P=0.03 each). Regular exercise reduced blood pressure on exertion and increased physical performance as assessed by maximal oxygen uptake and lactate curves. Arterial compliance and cardiac index remained unchanged. Physical exercise is able to decrease blood pressure even insubjects with low responsiveness to medical treatment. It should be included in the therapeutic approach to resistant hypertension.

  • African drumming: a holistic approach to reducing stress and improving health?

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    Abstract Title:

    African drumming: a holistic approach to reducing stress and improving health?

    Abstract Source:

    J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown). 2014 Jun ;15(6):441-6. PMID: 24983262

    Abstract Author(s):

    Carine Smith, Jeandre T Viljoen, Lauren McGeachie

    Article Affiliation:

    Carine Smith

    Abstract:

    AIMS:Very little data are available on the physical requirements for drumming and the potential health benefits of particularly djembe drumming. We hypothesized that djembe drumming constitutes low-to-moderate intensity exercise, and that drumming would simultaneously reduce stress and anxiety levels and benefit cardiovascular health.

    METHODS:Two study populations, middle-aged experienced drummers and a younger novice group participated in 40-min djembe drumming sessions. Measurements of blood pressure, blood lactate and stress and anxiety levels were taken before and after sessions. Also, heart rate was monitored at 5-s intervals throughout each session.

    RESULTS:Participation in drumming significantly decreased the Stress Anxiety Index scores acutely, both in a middle-aged (P < 0.01) and younger population (P < 0.001). SBP was significantly decreased in the older population postdrumming (141 ± 24 vs. 153 ± 26  mmHg; P < 0.01). Blood lactate levels remained below 4  mmol/l in all individuals and together with heart rate suggest that drumming may be categorized as low-to-moderate intensity exercise.

    CONCLUSION:Djembe drumming may improve cardiovascular health, without the cardiovascular risks to unhealthy or older populations that are associated with higher intensity exercise, and at the same time may decrease stress and anxiety levels. Furthermore, participation in drumming did not result in acute hypotension in normotensive individuals.

  • Age-related changes in cardiovascular system, autonomic functions, and levels of BDNF of healthy active males: role of yogic practice. 📎

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    Abstract Title:

    Age-related changes in cardiovascular system, autonomic functions, and levels of BDNF of healthy active males: role of yogic practice.

    Abstract Source:

    Age (Dordr). 2014 ;36(4):9683. Epub 2014 Jul 11. PMID: 25012275

    Abstract Author(s):

    Rameswar Pal, Som Nath Singh, Abhirup Chatterjee, Mantu Saha

    Article Affiliation:

    Rameswar Pal

    Abstract:

    Aging is associated with decline in cardiovascular, autonomic function, and brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF). Reports are scanty regarding whether yoga can improve age-related degenerative changes in healthy active men. This study is designed to appraise the role of yoga in improving age-related degenerative changes in cardiometabolic risk profile, autonomic function, stress, and BDNF. Healthy active males of three age groups (20-29, 30-39, and 40-49 years) were randomly assigned to practice yoga daily 1 h for 3 months. Significantly higher values of heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), load in heart (DoP), myocardial oxygen consumption (RPP), and total cholesterol (TC) were noted in senior age group. HR, BP, DoP, RPP, and TC decreased significantly following yogic practice. High frequency (HF), total power (TP), all time domain variables of heart rate variability (HRV), and skin conductance (SC) were significantly decreased with advancement of age. HF, TP, and time domain parameters of HRV and SC increased significantly following yogic practice. Higher levels of catecholamines and low frequency (LF) power of HRV was noted with advancement of age. Levels of catecholamines and LF significantly decreased following yogic practice. Cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level raised in senior age group. BDNF, serotonin, and dopamine were low in higher age group. Significant decrement of cortisol; ACTH; and increment in serotonin, dopamine, and BDNF was noted following yogic practice. This study revealed that yogic practices might help in the prevention of age-related degeneration by changing cardiometabolic risk factors, autonomic function, and BDNF in healthy male.

  • Ascorbic Acid Protects against Hypertension through Downregulation of ACE1 Gene Expression Mediated by Histone Deacetylation in Prenatal Inflammation-Induced Offspring. 📎

    Abstract Title:

    Ascorbic Acid Protects against Hypertension through Downregulation of ACE1 Gene Expression Mediated by Histone Deacetylation in Prenatal Inflammation-Induced Offspring.

    Abstract Source:

    Sci Rep. 2016 Dec 20 ;6:39469. Epub 2016 Dec 20. PMID: 27995995

    Abstract Author(s):

    Jing Wang, Na Yin, Youcai Deng, Yanling Wei, Yinhu Huang, Xiaoyun Pu, Li Li, Yingru Zheng, Jianxin Guo, Jianhua Yu, Xiaohui Li, Ping Yi

    Article Affiliation:

    Jing Wang

    Abstract:

    Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. Prenatal exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) leads to hypertension in a rat offspring. However, the mechanism is still unclear. This study unraveled epigenetic mechanism for this and explored the protective effects of ascorbic acid against hypertension on prenatal inflammation-induced offspring. Prenatal LPS exposure resulted in an increase of intrarenal oxidative stress and enhanced angiotensin-converting enzyme 1 (ACE1) gene expression at the mRNA and protein levels in 6- and 12-week-old offspring, correlating with the augmentation of histone H3 acetylation (H3AC) on the ACE1 promoter. However, the prenatal ascorbic acid treatment decreased the LPS-induced expression of ACE1, protected against intrarenal oxidative stress, and reversed the altered histone modification on the ACE1 promoter, showing the protective effect in offspring of prenatal LPS stimulation. Our study demonstrates that ascorbic acid is able to prevent hypertension in offspring from prenatal inflammation exposure. Thus, ascorbic acid can be a new approach towards the prevention of fetal programming hypertension.

  • Association between physical activity advice only or structured exercise training with blood pressure levels in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

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    Abstract Title:

    Association between physical activity advice only or structured exercise training with blood pressure levels in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    Abstract Source:

    Sports Med. 2014 Nov ;44(11):1557-72. PMID: 25047852

    Abstract Author(s):

    Franciele R Figueira, Daniel Umpierre, Felipe V Cureau, Alessandra T N Zucatti, Mériane B Dalzochio, Cristiane B Leitão, Beatriz D Schaan

    Article Affiliation:

    Franciele R Figueira

    Abstract:

    BACKGROUND:Diabetes is associated with marked cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, the association between different types of exercise training and blood pressure (BP) changes is not fully clear in type 2 diabetes.

    OBJECTIVE:The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) was to determine the effects of structured exercise training (aerobic [AER], resistance [RES], or combined [COMB]) and physical activity (PA) advice only on BP changes in patients with type 2 diabetes.

    METHODS:Searches in five electronic databases were conducted to retrieve studies published from 1980 to 2013. Eligible studies were RCTs consisting of structured exercise training or PA advice versus no intervention in patients with type 2 diabetes. We used random effect models to derive weighted mean differences (WMDs) of exercises on absolute changes in systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP).

    RESULTS:A total of 30 RCTs of structured training (2,217 patients) and 21 of PA advice (7,323 patients) were included. Data were extracted independently in duplicate. Structured exercise was associated with reductions in SBP (WMD -4.22 mmHg; 95% confidence interval [CI] -5.89 to -2.56) and DBP (WMD -2.07 mmHg; 95% CI -3.03 to -1.11) versus controls. In structured exercise interventions, AER and RES were associated with declines in BP, and COMB was not associated with BP changes. However, in sensitivity analysis, a high-intensity protocol within COMB was associated with declines in SBP (WMD -3.30 mmHg; 95% CI -4.71 to -1.89). Structured exercise longer than 150 min/week was associated with greater BP reductions. PA advice only was associated with reduction in SBP (WMD -2.97 mmHg; 95% CI -4.52 to -1.43) and DBP (WMD -1.41 mmHg; 95% CI -1.94 to -0.88) versus controls.

    CONCLUSIONS:AER, RES, and high-intensity combined training are associated with BP reduction in patients with type 2 diabetes, especially in exercise programs lasting more than 150 min/week. PA advice only is also associated with lower BP levels.

  • Association between physical activity advice only or structured exercise training with blood pressure levels in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

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    Abstract Title:

    Association between physical activity advice only or structured exercise training with blood pressure levels in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    Abstract Source:

    Sports Med. 2014 Nov ;44(11):1557-72. PMID: 25047852

    Abstract Author(s):

    Franciele R Figueira, Daniel Umpierre, Felipe V Cureau, Alessandra T N Zucatti, Mériane B Dalzochio, Cristiane B Leitão, Beatriz D Schaan

    Article Affiliation:

    Franciele R Figueira

    Abstract:

    BACKGROUND:Diabetes is associated with marked cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, the association between different types of exercise training and blood pressure (BP) changes is not fully clear in type 2 diabetes.

    OBJECTIVE:The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) was to determine the effects of structured exercise training (aerobic [AER], resistance [RES], or combined [COMB]) and physical activity (PA) advice only on BP changes in patients with type 2 diabetes.

    METHODS:Searches in five electronic databases were conducted to retrieve studies published from 1980 to 2013. Eligible studies were RCTs consisting of structured exercise training or PA advice versus no intervention in patients with type 2 diabetes. We used random effect models to derive weighted mean differences (WMDs) of exercises on absolute changes in systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP).

    RESULTS:A total of 30 RCTs of structured training (2,217 patients) and 21 of PA advice (7,323 patients) were included. Data were extracted independently in duplicate. Structured exercise was associated with reductions in SBP (WMD -4.22 mmHg; 95% confidence interval [CI] -5.89 to -2.56) and DBP (WMD -2.07 mmHg; 95% CI -3.03 to -1.11) versus controls. In structured exercise interventions, AER and RES were associated with declines in BP, and COMB was not associated with BP changes. However, in sensitivity analysis, a high-intensity protocol within COMB was associated with declines in SBP (WMD -3.30 mmHg; 95% CI -4.71 to -1.89). Structured exercise longer than 150 min/week was associated with greater BP reductions. PA advice only was associated with reduction in SBP (WMD -2.97 mmHg; 95% CI -4.52 to -1.43) and DBP (WMD -1.41 mmHg; 95% CI -1.94 to -0.88) versus controls.

    CONCLUSIONS:AER, RES, and high-intensity combined training are associated with BP reduction in patients with type 2 diabetes, especially in exercise programs lasting more than 150 min/week. PA advice only is also associated with lower BP levels.

  • Associations Between Bicycling for Transportation and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors Among Minneapolis-Saint Paul Area Commuters: A Cross-Sectional Study in Working-Age Adults.

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    Abstract Title:

    Associations Between Bicycling for Transportation and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors Among Minneapolis-Saint Paul Area Commuters: A Cross-Sectional Study in Working-Age Adults.

    Abstract Source:

    Am J Health Promot. 2018 03 ;32(3):631-637. Epub 2017 Jun 1. PMID: 28569115

    Abstract Author(s):

    Aaron T Berger, Xinyi Lisa Qian, Mark A Pereira

    Article Affiliation:

    Aaron T Berger

    Abstract:

    PURPOSE:This study describes the association between frequency of bicycling for active transportation and modifiable cardiometabolic risk factors in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) metropolitan area.

    DESIGN:We conducted an online survey from a convenience sample of likely bicycle commuters.

    SETTING:Participants were e-mailed invitations including a link to the online survey.

    PARTICIPANTS:Participants (n = 1450, 15.6% response rate) were residents of the 7-county MSP metropolitan area aged 20 to 64 years.

    MEASURES:Participants reported frequency of commute and destination cycling from April to September and October to March, prevalent cardiometabolic risk factors, and demographic covariates.

    ANALYSIS:We performed logistic regressions for associations between average weekly transportation bicycling and self-reported prevalent obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high triglycerides. We used Poisson regression for the count of cardiometabolic risk factors. All models were adjusted for age, sex, race, smoking, alcohol consumption, and other physical activity, with random intercepts by zip code.

    RESULTS:Self-reported bicycling frequency is associated with significantly lower odds of prevalent obesity, hypertension, and high triglycerides. Three bicycling trips per week is associated with 20% fewer (95% confidence interval: 12%-28%) cardiometabolic risk factors.

    CONCLUSION:Bicycling frequency is inversely associated with cardiometabolic risk factors. These results provide empirical support for the promotion of active transportation as public health policy.

  • Attenuation of blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats by acupuncture was associated with reduction oxidative stress and improvement from endothelial dysfunction.

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    Abstract Title:

    Attenuation of blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats by acupuncture was associated with reduction oxidative stress and improvement from endothelial dysfunction.

    Abstract Source:

    Chin Med. 2016 ;11(1):38. Epub 2016 Aug 30. PMID: 27582785

    Abstract Author(s):

    Sin Bond Leung, Hongwei Zhang, Chi Wai Lau, Zhi-Xiu Lin

    Article Affiliation:

    Sin Bond Leung

    Abstract:

    BACKGROUND:Hypertension can be treated effectively by acupuncture; however, the association between acupuncture and endothelial function remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of acupuncture on endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress-related parameters in spontaneously hypertensive animals.

    METHODS:Eighteen-week-old Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKYs) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) were arbitrarily divided into four groups: WKY control (n = 8), SHR control (n = 8), SHR sham-acupuncture (n = 8) and SHR acupuncture (n = 8). The SHR acupuncture group had electroacupuncture for 6 consecutive weeks on acupoints ST36 and LR3. Blood pressure was monitored during the treatment period, and animals were euthanized at the 6th week. Aortas were harvested for determination of angiotensin II levels, NADPH oxidase activity and nitrate/nitrite levels. The level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was determined by dihydroethidium (DHE) imaging, and functional studies were performed to assess vascular reactivity. Endothelial nitric oxidesynthase was measured by Western blot assay.

    RESULTS:Blood pressure at the end of treatment was significantly lower in the SHR acupuncture group (185.0 ± 5.6 mmHg) compared with the SHR sham-acupuncture and the SHR control groups (201.0 ± 5.4 and 197.4 ± 5.9 mmHg, respectively; P < 0.001). Serum angiotensin II level in the SHR control group was significantly higher than in the WKY control group (P < 0.001), while it was significantly attenuated by acupuncture treatment (P = 0.023). DHE staining showed that ROS level was reduced in the aortas (P = 0.0017) and carotid arteries (P = 0.039) of acupuncture-treated SHRs. Biochemical assays showed that acupuncture inhibited the NADPH oxidase activity (P = 0.022) and enhanced antioxidant capacity (P = 0.0039). In functional studies, endothelium-dependent relaxation of aortic rings (P = 0.018) and carotid arteries (P = 0.022) in response to acetylcholine was improved in the SHR acupuncture group. Aortas of SHRs receiving acupuncture also expressed an elevated level of eNOS (P > 0.001) and p-eNOS (P = 0.012) and a reduced nitrotyrosine level (P = 0.0012). The nitrate/nitrite level in aortic tissue was also attenuated after acupuncture (P = 0.0018).

    CONCLUSION:The effects of acupuncture in treating hypertension were associated with reduced oxidative stress, increased nitric oxide bioavailability and endothelial function in SHRs.

  • Attenuation of fructose-induced hypertension in rats by exercise training📎

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    Abstract Title:

    Attenuation of fructose-induced hypertension in rats by exercise training.

    Abstract Source:

    Hypertension. 1988 Aug;12(2):129-32. PMID: 3410522

    Abstract Author(s):

    G M Reaven, H Ho, B B Hoffman

    Article Affiliation:

    Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA.

    Abstract:

    This study was initiated to see if the insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and hypertension that follow feeding normotensive Sprague-Dawley rats a fructose-rich diet could be prevented by letting rats run spontaneously in exercise wheel cages. Blood pressure in sedentary rats increased from (mean +/- SEM) 125 +/- 2 to 148 +/- 3 mm Hg in response to 2 weeks of a high fructose diet, and this increment was significantly (p less than 0.001) attenuated in exercising rats (from 121 +/- 1 to 131 +/- 2 mm Hg). In addition, mean (+/- SEM) plasma insulin concentration was lower in fructose-fed rats allowed to run spontaneously (44 +/- 2 vs 62 +/- 5 microU/ml; p less than 0.01). Finally, resistance to insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was assessed by determining the steady state plasma glucose response to a continuous glucose and exogenous insulin infusion during a period in which endogenous insulin secretion was suppressed. The results of these studies indicated that the mean (+/- SEM) steady state plasma glucose concentration was significantly lower in the exercise-trained rats (127 +/- 5 vs 168 +/- 6 mg/dl; p less than 0.001), despite the fact that the steady state plasma insulin levels were also lower in rats allowed to run spontaneously (75 +/- 4 vs 90 +/- 5 microU/ml; p less than 0.05). Thus, the ability of exercise-trained rats to stimulate glucose disposal was enhanced as compared with that of sedentary rats fed the same fructose-rich diet. These data demonstrate that the insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and hypertension produced in normotensive rats by feeding them a high fructose diet can be attenuated if rats are allowed to run spontaneously.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

  • Beetroot supplementation improves the physiological responses to incline walking.

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    Abstract Title:

    Beetroot supplementation improves the physiological responses to incline walking.

    Abstract Source:

    Eur J Appl Physiol. 2018 Jun ;118(6):1131-1141. Epub 2018 Mar 15. PMID: 29546639

    Abstract Author(s):

    Mark Waldron, Luke Waldron, Craig Lawlor, Adrian Gray, Jamie Highton

    Article Affiliation:

    Mark Waldron

    Abstract:

    PURPOSE:We investigated the effects of an acute 24-h nitrate-rich beetroot juice supplement (BR) on the energy cost, exercise efficiency and blood pressure responses to intermittent walking at different gradients.

    METHODS:In a double-blind, cross-over design, eight participants were provided with a total of 350 ml of nitrate-rich (~ 20.5 mmol nitrate) BR or placebo (PLA) across 24 h before completing intermittent walking at 3 km/h on treadmill at gradients of 1, 5, 10, 15 and 20%.

    RESULTS:Resting mean arterial pressure (MAP) was ~ 4.1% lower after BR (93 vs. 89 mmHg; P = 0.001), as well as during exercise (102 vs. 99 mmHg; P = 0.011) and recovery (97 vs. 94 mmHg; P = 0.001). Exercising (1227 vs. 1129 ml/min P < 0.001) and end-stage (1404 vs. 1249 ml/min; P = 0.002) oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]O) was lower in BR compared to PLA, which was accompanied by an average reduction in phase II [Formula: see text]Oamplitude (1067 vs. 940 ml/min; P = 0.025). Similarly, recovery [Formula: see text]O(509 vs. 458 ml/min; P = 0.001) was lower in BR. Whole blood potassium concentration increased from pre-post exercise in PLA (4.1 ± 0.3 vs. 4.5 ± 0.3 mmol/L; P = 0.013) but not BR (4.1 ± 0.31 vs. 4.3 ± 0.2 mmol/L; P = 0.188).

    CONCLUSIONS:Energy cost of exercise, recovery of [Formula: see text]O, MAP and blood markers were ameliorated after BR. Previously-reported mechanisms explain these findings, which are more noticeable during less-efficient walking at steep gradients (15-20%). These findings have practical implications for hill-walkers.

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