Effects of Aerobic Exercise on Atherosclerotic Risk in Postmenopausal Women

Abstract

Introduction

To study the effects of aerobic exercise on lipid metabolism, endothelial function, and oxidative stress reaction in postmenopausal women, in order to prevent and control atherosclerosis.

Methods

Thirty-two women with natural menopause were randomly divided into an exercise group and a control group. Participants in the exercise group (n = 16) took part in a 3-month aerobic training program according to their exercise prescription, while participants in the control group (n = 16) maintained their usual lifestyles. Lipids, endothelial function, and oxidative stress-related indicators were measured before and after the intervention.

Results

After 3 months of aerobic training at an intensity of 50–60% of cardiorespiratory fitness, serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased significantly (P < 0.05), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased significantly (P < 0.01). A significant reduction in endothelin (P < 0.01) and a significant increase in nitric oxide (P < 0.05) were also observed. The training intervention also delayed the increase in homocysteine and cysteine aspartate-specific protease-3 in postmenopausal women.

Conclusions

Aerobic exercise had a positive effect on blood lipids, endothelial function, and oxidative stress of postmenopausal women, and these changes may mitigate the risk of atherosclerosis occurrence. Similar exercise programs could be used as a primary atherosclerosis prevention strategy for postmenopausal women.

Funding

General Administration of Sport of China (CN)(2017B064); Beijing Sport University (CN)(2018GJ014)