Effects of different modes of training on ghrelin concentration in normal-weight middle-age women

Ghrelin is a gut-derived peptide that stimulates appetite and playing a key role in short-term energy homeostasis. There is a strong correlation between increases in circulating ghrelin with weight loss and changes in ghrelin are related to changes in energy availability, include food intake and exercise expenditure. Thus, the aim of the present study was to compare the effects of continuous and discontinuous training on ghrelin concentration of non-athlete, middle-age woman.

Forty five middle-aged, non-athlete women voluntarily participated in this study. Subjects were divided randomly to three groups including: continuous, discontinuous and control group (each group 15). One day before the beginning of training program, the blood sample were taken in fasting state .The two training groups participated in sport activities for eight weeks, three times a week with 50-70 heart rate/min for duration 60-90 minutes .The training program of continuous group were performed in one session and the program of discontinuous group were performed in two sessions with same time and intensity. 24 hours following the end of the 8th week, all the measurements were performed similar to the pretest phase. The data was analyzed using one way analysis of variance.

The fasting ghrelin concentration significantly increased in both exercise groups in compare with control group (P<0.001). Weight, also, in discontinuous group was significantly decreased in compare with control following 8 weeks of exercise training (P<0.05).

Regular exercise training was found to improve the serum ghrelin concentration and some components of body composition in non-athlete, middle-age women; thus, it seems that this type of training can be efficient, safe and inexpensive way in order to health care of middle aged women.