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Nutritional Strategies to Offset Disuse-Induced Skeletal Muscle Atrophy and Anabolic Resistance in Older Adults: From Whole-Foods to Isolated Ingredients.
Marshall, RN, Smeuninx, B, Morgan, PT, Breen, L
Nutrients. 2020;12(5)
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Human skeletal muscle mass and strength are significant for maintaining cardio-metabolic health and locomotion in older age. With advancing age, a loss of muscle mass and strength is observed (sarcopenia), increasing the risk of falls, fractures, and mortality. The aim of this review was to provide an overview of nutritional countermeasures to disuse atrophy and anabolic resistance in older individuals. Literature shows that: To date, the most potent intervention to mitigate disuse-induced muscle deterioration is mechanical loading in the form of resistance exercise. Optimising nutritional intake via high-quality proteins, food-fortification and/or oral nutritional supplements could potentially attenuate disuse-induced impairments in muscle protein turnover that drive the atrophy process. Targeted single and/or multi-ingredient supplements may facilitate accrual and retention of muscle tissue during disuse events and may be a preferable strategy in older adults who are unable to consume adequate high-quality dietary protein from whole-foods alone. Authors conclude that further research is needed to determine the temporal change in muscle protein turnover during disuse events and translate promising evidence of potentially beneficial nutritional supplements/ingredients into a clinically relevant setting.
Abstract
Preserving skeletal muscle mass and functional capacity is essential for healthy ageing. Transient periods of disuse and/or inactivity in combination with sub-optimal dietary intake have been shown to accelerate the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, predisposing to disability and metabolic disease. Mechanisms underlying disuse and/or inactivity-related muscle deterioration in the older adults, whilst multifaceted, ultimately manifest in an imbalance between rates of muscle protein synthesis and breakdown, resulting in net muscle loss. To date, the most potent intervention to mitigate disuse-induced muscle deterioration is mechanical loading in the form of resistance exercise. However, the feasibility of older individuals performing resistance exercise during disuse and inactivity has been questioned, particularly as illness and injury may affect adherence and safety, as well as accessibility to appropriate equipment and physical therapists. Therefore, optimising nutritional intake during disuse events, through the introduction of protein-rich whole-foods, isolated proteins and nutrient compounds with purported pro-anabolic and anti-catabolic properties could offset impairments in muscle protein turnover and, ultimately, the degree of muscle atrophy and recovery upon re-ambulation. The current review therefore aims to provide an overview of nutritional countermeasures to disuse atrophy and anabolic resistance in older individuals.
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Long-term clinical outcomes in survivors of severe acute respiratory syndrome and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus outbreaks after hospitalisation or ICU admission: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Ahmed, H, Patel, K, Greenwood, DC, Halpin, S, Lewthwaite, P, Salawu, A, Eyre, L, Breen, A, O'Connor, R, Jones, A, et al
Journal of rehabilitation medicine. 2020;52(5):jrm00063
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Alongside acute challenges, the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) outbreaks resulted in significant long-term clinical problems for survivors, with implications for rehabilitation services and healthcare utilization. The aim of this study was to determine the long-term clinical complications for survivors of SARS and MERS after hospitalization and intensive care unit admission. This study is a systemic review and meta-analysis which included a total of 28 studies in the systematic review and 23 in the meta-analysis. Results indicate that health-related quality of life, measured using SF-36, was considerably reduced in survivors at 6 months post-infection, and showed only slight improvement beyond 6 months. Health-related quality of life of survivors remained below that of the normal population and of those with chronic conditions. Authors conclude that clinicians should monitor the survivors of COVID-19 for the range of physical and mental health impairments in order to manage these patients appropriately.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine long-term clinical outcomes in survivors of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronavirus infections after hospitalization or intensive care unit admission. DATA SOURCES Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, and PsycINFO were searched. STUDY SELECTION Original studies reporting clinical outcomes of adult SARS and MERS survivors 3 months after admission or 2 months after discharge were included. DATA EXTRACTION Studies were graded using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine 2009 Level of Evidence Tool. Meta-analysis was used to derive pooled estimates for prevalence/severity of outcomes up to 6 months after hospital discharge, and beyond 6 months after discharge. DATA SYNTHESIS Of 1,169 identified studies, 28 were included in the analysis. Pooled analysis revealed that common complications up to 6 months after discharge were: impaired diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (prevalence 27%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 15–45%); and reduced exercise capacity (mean 6-min walking distance 461 m, CI 450–473 m). The prevalences of post-traumatic stress disorder (39%, 95% CI 31–47%), depression (33%, 95% CI 20–50%) and anxiety (30%, 95% CI 10–61) beyond 6 months after discharge were considerable. Low scores on Short-Form 36 were identified beyond 6 months after discharge. CONCLUSION Lung function abnormalities, psychological impairment and reduced exercise capacity were common in SARS and MERS survivors. Clinicians should anticipate and investigate similar long-term outcomes in COVID-19 survivors.
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Role of Minerals and Trace Elements in Diabetes and Insulin Resistance.
Dubey, P, Thakur, V, Chattopadhyay, M
Nutrients. 2020;12(6)
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Minerals and trace elements have several functions within the body and deficiencies, or excesses may contribute to disease. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is often associated with an imbalance of damaging oxidants within the body and deficiencies of certain minerals and trace elements which act as antioxidants may contribute to this disease. This review paper aimed to determine trace element deficiencies, which may be related to the development of type 2 diabetes. The role of selenium in the development of diabetes is difficult to determine, as studies are conflicting. Magnesium, iron, and iodine may play a role in maintaining blood sugar levels. Chromium supplementation may improve T2DM through improvements to the functioning of the hormone insulin, which acts to process sugar in the blood. Boron may indirectly impact T2DM through its ability to act as an antioxidant. Dietary intake of calcium may prevent the development of T2DM, and finally cobalt and zinc deficiency may contribute to the development of T2DM. It was concluded that trace element deficiencies are associated with oxidative stress which may eventually lead to T2DM. This study could be used by healthcare professionals to understand the importance of dietary intakes of all trace elements in order to limit oxidative stress and decrease the risk of development of T2DM.
Abstract
Minerals and trace elements are micronutrients that are essential to the human body but present only in traceable amounts. Nonetheless, they exhibit well-defined biochemical functions. Deficiencies in these micronutrients are related to widespread human health problems. This review article is focused on some of these minerals and trace element deficiencies and their consequences in diabetes and insulin resistance. The levels of trace elements vary considerably among different populations, contingent on the composition of the diet. In several Asian countries, large proportions of the population are affected by a number of micronutrient deficiencies. Local differences in selenium, zinc, copper, iron, chromium and iodine in the diet occur in both developed and developing countries, largely due to malnutrition and dependence on indigenous nutrition. These overall deficiencies and, in a few cases, excess of essential trace elements may lead to imbalances in glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance. The most extensive problems affecting one billion people or more worldwide are associated with inadequate supply of a number of minerals and trace elements including iodine, selenium, zinc, calcium, chromium, cobalt, iron, boron and magnesium. This review comprises various randomized controlled trials, cohort and case-controlled studies, and observational and laboratory-based studies with substantial outcomes of micronutrient deficiencies on diabetes and insulin resistance in diverse racial inhabitants from parts of Asia, Africa, and North America. Changes in these micronutrient levels in the serum and urine of subjects may indicate the trajectory toward metabolic changes, oxidative stress and provide disease-relevant information.
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Exercise and Nutrition Interventions in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer during Curative Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Bye, A, Sandmael, JA, Stene, GB, Thorsen, L, Balstad, TR, Solheim, TS, Pripp, AH, Oldervoll, LM
Nutrients. 2020;12(11)
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Head and neck cancers (HNCs) comprises malignancies of the oral cavity, throat, larynx, salivary glands as well as nasal and paranasal sinuses. Surgery and radiotherapy (RT), sometimes combined with chemotherapy (CT) are the main treatment approaches. The aim of this study was to examine current evidence for nutritional interventions alone, physical exercise interventions alone and interventions combining nutrition and physical exercise during RT treatment for patients with HNCs. This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of thirteen randomised controlled studies. Findings show that nutrition and physical exercise interventions have a positive effect on body composition and physical function for patients with HNCs undergoing RT (+/- concomitant CT) with a curative intent. Authors conclude that due to the pilot and feasibility design of the studies combining physical exercise and nutrition, no conclusions can be drawn concerning the effects from these studies.
Abstract
The aim of this meta-analysis was to examine the effects of nutritional and physical exercise interventions and interventions combining these interventions during radiotherapy treatment for patients with head and neck cancer on body composition, objectively measured physical function and nutritional status. Systematic electronic searches were conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed interface), EMBASE (Ovid interface), CINAHL (EBSCO interface) and Cochrane Library (Wiley interface). We identified 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that included 858 patients. For body composition, using only nutrition as intervention, a significant difference between treatment and control group were observed (SMD 0.42 (95CI 0.23-0.62), p < 0.001). Only pilot RCTs investigated combination treatment and no significant difference between the treatment and control groups were found (SMD 0.21 (95CI -0.16-0.58), p = 0.259). For physical function, a significant difference between treatment and control group with a better outcome for the treatment group were observed (SMD 0.78 (95CI 0.51-1.04), p < 0.001). No effects on nutritional status were found. This meta-analysis found significantly positive effects of nutrition and physical exercise interventions alone in favor of the treatment groups. No effects in studies with combined interventions were observed. Future full-scaled RCTs combining nutrition and physical exercise is warranted.
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Physical activity and nutrition interventions for older adults with cancer: a systematic review.
Forbes, CC, Swan, F, Greenley, SL, Lind, M, Johnson, MJ
Journal of cancer survivorship : research and practice. 2020;14(5):689-711
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Physical activity (PA) benefits people living with or beyond cancer by improving physical function and quality of life (QoL) during and after cancer treatment, and cancer-related outcomes. Furthermore, poor nutritional status is associated with worse overall survival and QoL in patients receiving chemotherapy than those with better nutritional status. The aim of this study was to summarize the current literature regarding activity and nutritional based interventions on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in older adults with cancer delivered before, during or after active cancer treatments, or as part of best supportive care. This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 randomised-controlled studies. Results show that effects on QoL outcomes were mixed since most studies were not designed to test effectiveness; however, the evaluation phase trials showed positive trends in QoL related to lifestyle interventions. Authors conclude that activity/nutrition programmes targeting older adults should include candidate intervention components; the need to use a holistic and tailored approach with functional goals and some personal professional contact.
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this review was to summarize the current literature for the effectiveness of activity and nutritional based interventions on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in older adults living with and beyond cancer (LWBC). METHODS We conducted systematic structured searches of CINAHL, Embase, Medline, Cochrane CENTRAL databases, and bibliographic review. Two independent researchers selected against inclusion criteria: (1) lifestyle nutrition and/or activity intervention for people with any cancer diagnosis, (2) measured HRQoL, (3) all participants over 60 years of age and (4) randomized controlled trials. RESULTS Searches identified 5179 titles; 114 articles had full text review, with 14 studies (participant n = 1660) included. Three had nutrition and activity components, one, nutrition only and ten, activity only. Duration ranged from 7 days to 1 year. Interventions varied from intensive daily prehabilitation to home-based gardening interventions. Studies investigated various HRQoL outcomes including fatigue, general and cancer-specific quality of life (QoL), distress, depression, global side-effect burden and physical functioning. Eight studies reported significant intervention improvements in one or more QoL measure. Seven studies reported using a psychosocial/theoretical framework. There is a gap in tailored nutrition advice. CONCLUSIONS Among the few studies that targeted older adults with cancer, most were activity-based programmes with half reporting improvements in QoL. Future research should focus on or include tailored nutrition components and consider appropriate behaviour change techniques to maximize potential QoL improvement. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS More research is needed to address the research gap regarding older adults as current recommendations are derived from younger populations.
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Central fatness and risk of all cause mortality: systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of 72 prospective cohort studies.
Jayedi, A, Soltani, S, Zargar, MS, Khan, TA, Shab-Bidar, S
BMJ (Clinical research ed.). 2020;370:m3324
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Body mass index (BMI) may not be an adequate tool to measure obesity, as it does not describe where fat is located on the body. Distribution of fat around the middle may be related to the risk of death and may be a more accurate measure of obesity. This systematic review of 1950 studies aimed to assess the association of fat around the middle with death. The results showed that every 10cm increase in waist circumference was related to an 11% increased risk of death by any cause. Women with a waist circumference greater than 80cm and 90cm in men had a higher risk of death by any cause. Fat carried around the middle increased the risk of death by any cause, however larger thigh and hip circumferences lowered the risk. This was regardless of BMI. It was concluded that measures of centrally located fat, alongside BMI, could be used to determine the risk of death. This study could be used by healthcare professionals to understand the importance of not solely relying on BMI and measuring where fat is distributed on the body may be an additional measure to determine risk of premature death.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantify the association of indices of central obesity, including waist circumference, hip circumference, thigh circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio, waist-to-thigh ratio, body adiposity index, and A body shape index, with the risk of all cause mortality in the general population, and to clarify the shape of the dose-response relations. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES PubMed and Scopus from inception to July 2019, and the reference lists of all related articles and reviews. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES Prospective cohort studies reporting the risk estimates of all cause mortality across at least three categories of indices of central fatness. Studies that reported continuous estimation of the associations were also included. DATA SYNTHESIS A random effects dose-response meta-analysis was conducted to assess linear trend estimations. A one stage linear mixed effects meta-analysis was used for estimating dose-response curves. RESULTS Of 98 745 studies screened, 1950 full texts were fully reviewed for eligibility. The final analyses consisted of 72 prospective cohort studies with 2 528 297 participants. The summary hazard ratios were as follows: waist circumference (10 cm, 3.94 inch increase): 1.11 (95% confidence interval 1.08 to 1.13, I2=88%, n=50); hip circumference (10 cm, 3.94 inch increase): 0.90 (0.81 to 0.99, I2=95%, n=9); thigh circumference (5 cm, 1.97 inch increase): 0.82 (0.75 to 0.89, I2=54%, n=3); waist-to-hip ratio (0.1 unit increase): 1.20 (1.15 to 1.25, I2=90%, n=31); waist-to-height ratio (0.1 unit increase): 1.24 (1.12 to 1.36, I2=94%, n=11); waist-to-thigh ratio (0.1 unit increase): 1.21 (1.03 to 1.39, I2=97%, n=2); body adiposity index (10% increase): 1.17 (1.00 to 1.33, I2=75%, n=4); and A body shape index (0.005 unit increase): 1.15 (1.10 to 1.20, I2=87%, n=9). Positive associations persisted after accounting for body mass index. A nearly J shaped association was found between waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio and the risk of all cause mortality in men and women. A positive monotonic association was observed for waist-to-hip ratio and A body shape index. The association was U shaped for body adiposity index. CONCLUSIONS Indices of central fatness including waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio, waist-to-thigh ratio, body adiposity index, and A body shape index, independent of overall adiposity, were positively and significantly associated with a higher all cause mortality risk. Larger hip circumference and thigh circumference were associated with a lower risk. The results suggest that measures of central adiposity could be used with body mass index as a supplementary approach to determine the risk of premature death.
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Nutrition, the digestive system and immunity in COVID-19 infection.
Bold, J, Harris, M, Fellows, L, Chouchane, M
Gastroenterology and hepatology from bed to bench. 2020;13(4):331-340
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Covid-19 needs both prevention and recovery strategies to reduce complications. This review study aimed to discuss the associations between nutrition, obesity, and the impact these have on stomach symptoms associated with Covid-19. Obesity has been identified as a risk factor for Covid-19 and this could be due to several factors such as impaired immune function, increased inflammation, increased susceptibility to infection and the high number of cells on fat tissue, which express the receptor known to allow Covid-19 into cells. The involvement of the gut microbiota of obese individuals was extensively reviewed and gut dysbiosis has been associated with many diseases, thus improving gut microbiota may go some way to improving Covid-19 outcomes. Nutritional interventions to reduce obesity need to be part of a multi-pronged strategy and the possible introduction of vitamin D supplements and probiotics. The paper did not draw any conclusions; however this paper could be used by healthcare professionals to understand the role of obesity in increasing the risk of Covid-19 infection, complications that may arise upon and after infection and nutritional strategies as part of a management plan.
Abstract
The current review aimed to synthesize the literature on the complex relationship between food consumption and nutritional status as well as the digestive system in order to examine the relationship between immunity and potential responses to COVID-19 infection. The goal is to help inform the many healthcare professionals working with COVID-19 patients. A literature search was performed on PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases. Hand searches were also undertaken using Google and reference lists to identify recent evidence. Studies were critically appraised, and the findings were analyzed by narrative synthesis. Nutritional status can impact immunity in several ways, including affecting susceptibility to infection, severity of disease, and recovery time, and is therefore a significant consideration in the management of COVID-19. COVID-19 can also impact digestive function, which can further impact nutritional status. The role of Vitamin D deficiency in vulnerability to severe respiratory infections, including COVID-19, has been recognized, and it may have a role in treatment where deficiency is indicated. Healthcare professionals should be aware that obesity may be accompanied by micronutrient malnutrition including vitamin D deficiency and alterations in the microbiome and inflammatory responses, which can further impact immunity and disease severity. Multidisciplinary team-work is recommended in the management of patients with COVID-19, and approaches should include a consideration of nutritional status (both macronutrients and micronutrients), body weight, and gastrointestinal signs and symptom.
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The Long Haul of COVID-19 Recovery: Immune Rejuvenation versus Immune Support.
Bland, JS
Integrative medicine (Encinitas, Calif.). 2020;19(6):18-22
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Following Covid-19 infection, sufferers have reported various residual symptoms, which have been likened to those experienced by chronic fatigue sufferers and those with Gulf War syndrome. This review paper aimed to assess whether the body has a similar immune response to these diseases during Covid-19, and if so, what therapies could be used. It also reviewed any diet and lifestyle factors that may be affecting the immune response. The paper stated that Covid-19 infection is associated with inflammation, which can damage immune cells and inflammation prior to Covid-19 infection may contribute to severity of the infection. Prior research in seemingly healthy individuals indicates that environment, diet, and lifestyle factors can all contribute to differing “immune identities” and eliminating immune cells which carry the imprint of memories should be a therapy focus in Covid-19 patients. Fasting, diets low in refined sugars and high in omega-3 and plant chemicals were discussed as ways for the body to clear out immune cells. It was concluded that personalising therapy strategies based on an individual’s immune identity to reduce inflammation could ultimately support the immune system. This paper could be used by healthcare professionals to understand the importance of diet and lifestyle changes to reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
Abstract
With the COVID-19 pandemic still affecting communities all over the world and "Long Haul" chronic health issues emerging, it is time for us to look back at past multi-symptom health conditions that required a different approach to their treatment, beyond just managing symptoms. It is important for us to consider how to apply what we have learned about immune rejuvenation and its impact on conditions associated with chronic immune dysfunction. We know more than we ever have before about how to reduce chronic inflammation at its source through the support of selective immune cell autophagy/mitophagy and improved immune cell mitochondrial activity, followed by remodeling of the immune epigenome, and-ultimately-a reset of immune function.
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Early Intervention in Psychosis: Effectiveness and Implementation of a Combined Exercise and Health Behavior Intervention Within Routine Care.
Smith, J, Griffiths, LA, Band, M, Hird-Smith, R, Williams, B, Bold, J, Bradley, E, Dilworth, R, Horne, D
Frontiers in endocrinology. 2020;11:577691
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Young people with psychosis have higher rates of obesity, diabetes risk, premature cardiovascular disease, and overall reduced life expectancy in comparison to their non-psychotic peers. This is primarily due to adverse health behaviours and changes in metabolic regulation due to antipsychotic medication. This study aimed to evaluate a 12-week combined exercise and health behaviour intervention (SHAPE - Supporting Health And Promoting Exercise) as part of the routine Early Intervention in Psychosis service in the UK. The program itself included educational series on health behaviours alongside supportive materials, followed by guided exercise sessions encompassing a variety of activities, focused on promoting self-efficacy. 26 individuals, predominantly male, completed the program. Their health behaviours and clinical measurements were assessed at the beginning of the intervention and after 12 months. At the start of the program, the average baseline data of the participants showed an elevated risk for adverse health outcomes, ranging from high BMI, smoking and substance use, low vegetable consumption, altered metabolic markers or medication side effects. After the 12-week program, individuals managed to reduce their health risks and sustained such benefits 12 months onwards. The effectiveness of the intervention in managing antipsychotic drug-induced weight gain was particularly highlighted here by the authors. In summary, the early management of cardiometabolic risk factors associated with psychosis is critical. Early intervention with behavioural and physical health strategies through i.e. carefully considered programs can enhance routine care. The study highlights the importance of a multifactorial approach in the management of mental health conditions, and the importance of health behaviour and physical activities in the mitigation of health risks associated with psychosis.
Abstract
Aim: Young people with psychosis have higher rates of obesity, premature cardiovascular disease, and death compared to non-psychotic peers in the general population due to changes in metabolic regulation linked to antipsychotic medication and adverse health risk behaviors. The aim of this paper is to outline the development, implementation, and evaluation of a combined 12-week exercise and health behavior intervention delivered as part of an Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) routine service, within the UK. Methods: Participants (n = 27) completed a 12-week combined intervention program, engaging in weekly, 90-min sessions comprising a healthy behavior education session (45 min), followed by a facilitated exercise session (45 min). Anthropometric data from participants (n = 26) were collected at baseline, 12 weeks, and 12 months post-intervention. Health behaviors and clinical measurements were assessed at baseline and 12 months. Results: Mean baseline data suggests participants were at an increased health risk on entry to the program, with elevated values in mean body mass index (BMI; 70% overweight/obese), waist circumference, resting heart rate, and triglycerides. Fifty percent reported smoking daily, 64% ate < 5 fruits/vegetables per day, and 52% of participants were prescribed highly obesogenic antipsychotic medications (i.e., Olanzapine). At 12 weeks and 12 months, no changes were observed in mean BMI, waist circumference or any other clinical variable (p > 0.05). At 12 months, participants reported a positive impact on health behaviors including improved diet, increased physical activity levels, and cessation of substance use (n = 2), alcohol use (n = 2), and smoking (n = 4). Focus groups captured participant experiences, engagement with and satisfaction with the program, including challenges/barriers to program adherence. Conclusions: The 12-week exercise and health behaviors program supported participants to attenuate their physical health risk which was sustained at 12-month follow-up. Self-reported positive health behavior changes are likely to have contributed to the prevention of excessive weight gain in this high-risk period. The evaluation was designed to have validity for a "real world EIP setting" and reflect the complexity of delivery to this participant group. Evaluation findings influenced subsequent commissioning of the physical health intervention as an ongoing element of routine EIP care within the participant site.
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Comparing Mindful and Non-Mindful Exercises on Alleviating Anxiety Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
So, WWY, Lu, EY, Cheung, WM, Tsang, HWH
International journal of environmental research and public health. 2020;17(22)
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Physical exercise is well known to be beneficial for physical and mental health, and has been proposed as effective treatment for anxiety symptoms. Recent studies have suggested mindful exercises, such as yoga, tai chi, and qigong, may further alleviate anxiety symptoms, compared with traditional exercise. The aim of this review is to compare the effects of mindful and non-mindful exercise on anxiety. A total of 14 studies were included in this analysis. Overall these studies found a significant decrease in anxiety in both mindful and non-mindful exercise. Eight studies found significantly lower anxiety levels in the mindful exercise group compared with the non-mindful exercise group. Based on these results, the authors conclude in general, exercise helps reduce anxiety and mindful exercise seems to be more effective in alleviating symptoms compared with non-mindful exercise. The authors recommend further studies explore the underlying mechanisms of mindful exercise and encourage yoga to be a primary intervention to help reduce overall anxiety.
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, studies and reviews have reported the therapeutic benefits of both mindful and non-mindful exercises in reducing anxiety. However, there have not been any systematic reviews to compare their relative effectiveness for therapeutic application, especially among the non-clinical population. Thus, the aim of this review is to compare the effectiveness between mindful and non-mindful exercise on treating anxiety among non-clinical samples. METHODS Potential articles were retrieved from PubMed, Embase, Academic Search Premier, and PsycInfo. Randomized controlled trials, which involved both mindful and non-mindful exercises as intervention, and the use of anxiety outcome measures were included. RESULTS Twenty-four studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in our systematic review. In addition, 14 studies provided sufficient data to be included in the meta-analysis. For studies that reported significant group differences at post-assessment, results showed that mindful exercise was more beneficial in reducing anxiety than non-mindful exercise. The meta-analysis reported that yoga was more effective in reducing anxiety than non-mindful exercise. CONCLUSIONS Compared to non-mindful exercise, yoga is shown to be more effective in alleviating anxiety symptoms. It is recommended that yoga could be used as a primary healthcare intervention to help the public reduce anxiety.