The Importance of Systemic Balance in Safeguarding Health: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial on VLDL, Triglycerides, Free T3, Leptin, Ghrelin, Cortisol and Visceral Adipose Tissue ()
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this clinical trial was to delineate some of the negative consequences of high BMI on health and explore the possibility of a solution. We analysed the blood test results of nine overweight adults with sedentary lifestyles, and an average BMI of 32.23. Results revealed a statistically significant reduction of visceral adipose tissue, very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL), and triglycerides. Testosterone, leptin, IGF-1 and Free T3 increased within the normal range, juxtaposed by cortisol and ghrelin that declined, but without dipping into abnormality. These findings have important implications during the COVID-19 pandemic, where optimal immunity is deemed necessary in limiting susceptibility to the virus. Recent research indicates that weight gain often escalates vulnerability to respiratory track disturbances, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes. Consequently, pre-existing conditions increase COVID-19 mortality rates. CVD and diabetes emerge out of hormonal imbalances that involve Free T3, leptin, ghrelin, testosterone, and cortisol. Physical training is decidedly the most acclaimed solution, yet, the least implemented one, due to procrastination, or demoralization after investing constant exhaustive effort with no immediately visible physical change. COVID-19 confinement exacerbates the tendency for inactivity, and promotes stress-eating behaviours. Moreover, strenuous exercise, necessary for visceral fat reduction, results in a negative cortisol/testosterone relationship that provokes caloric consumption and inflammation. Offering an alternative to exercise that effectively improves health, boosts metabolism, and controls appetite, may serve as a proactive, and preventive method that can safeguard health.