[Physical activity and lipid metabolism (author's transl)]

[Obesity in dogs - A review of underlying reasons]

Obesity does not merely represent a human problem but is also recognized as an immense health threat in domestic animals. However, this disease is frequently not recognized by the pet owner. Current studies assume that up to 60 % of domestic dogs are overweight or significantly obese with various reasons existing for this development. Not only the feeding management contributes to the development of obesity but also genetics, age and gender as well as specific primary diseases add to the individual's weight gain. Addtionally, medical treatment and the owner-pet-relationship may increase the risk for obesity. In order to treat obesity in a qualified manner or ideally to prevent this from developing in the first place, a profound knowledge concerning the underlying causes is essential. The present article provides a review of the most important impact factors thus adding to the body of information allowing for the acquisition of such expertise.

Safety and tolerability of sauna detoxification for the protracted withdrawal symptoms of substance abuse

Objective

Protracted drug withdrawal symptoms can last months or years after drug cessation, often precipitating a return to substance misuse. We evaluated the safety and preliminary health benefits of a unique chemical exposure regimen based on exercise, sauna and therapeutic nutrients.

Methods

This was a prospective evaluation of 109 individuals sequentially enrolled into a sauna detoxification component of a multi-modal, long-term residential substance abuse treatment centre.

Results

Data from medical charts, client self-reports and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) responses indicated that the Hubbard sauna detoxification method was well tolerated, with a 99% completion rate, including one human immunodeficiency virus and nine hepatitis C positive clients. There were no cases of dehydration, overhydration or heat illness. Statistically significant improvements were seen in both mental and physical SF-36 scores at regimen completion, as well as in Addiction Severity Index and Global Appraisal of Individual Needs Short Screener change scores at rehabilitation program discharge, compared with enrolment.

Conclusions

The regimen lacked serious adverse events, had a very low discontinuation rate and high client-reported satisfaction. The SF-36 data indicated improved physical and emotional symptoms. Therefore, broader investigation of this sauna-based treatment regimen is warranted.

Chemical sensitivity after intoxication at work with solvents: response to sauna therapy

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this case study is twofold. One, to illustrate a simple method of detoxification using heat chamber depuration (sauna). Second, to raise awareness in the practice of medicine of the importance of taking an environmentally oriented history.

SUBJECT

A patient with a chronic, debilitating multisystem disorder of 20-years' duration related to a chemical sensitivity resulting from low-level exposure to toxic chemicals (solvents) at work.

INTERVENTIONS

Detoxification treatment consisted of heat chamber depuration (sauna) together with a specific protocol of oral and intravenous therapy. Appropriate advice was offered related to choosing a safe and suitable workplace.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Observation of the dynamic interaction and elimination of chlorinated and aromatic hydrocarbons (solvents) from the patient's bloodstream and related clinical improvement during the course of treatment.

RESULTS

The patient was able to discontinue, without ill effect, all medications previously prescribed to treat her symptoms. Heat chamber depuration (sauna) detoxification treatment brought substantial release of symptoms and returned the individual to gainful employment.

CONCLUSION

The connection between symptoms of chronic degenerative diseases and environmental and/or nutritional factors is missed in many cases due to lack of obtaining an environmentally oriented medical history. Taking such a history and dealing with the cause of illness using avoidance and/or appropriate therapy is preventive and cost-effective for both the patient and society.

Plasma-triglycerides and exercise: a delicate balance

Alimentary lipemia was studied in 12 healthy young men with and without exercise. Three sets of experiments were performed. While continuous exercise of 90 min duration significantly reduced postprandial triglycerides by 26% (study I), this effect could not be observed when exercise was interrupted for 5 min after each 25 min (study II). Plasma free fatty acid concentrations, in the latter experiment, were significantly higher (by 311%) than during rest. When, in a third experiment continuous exercise was compared with intermittent physical activity, the latter condition significantly increased postprandial triglyceridemia, most probably due to precipitous rises of free fatty acids on each interruption of ergometry. It is concluded that in the third experiment the balance between triglyceride removal and triglyceride synthesis was shifted toward the latter. Whether exercise lowers, leaves unaltered, or raises plasma triglyceride levels may depend on subtle changes of experimental design.

Mitigation of alimentary lipemia by postprandial exercise--phenomena and mechanisms

The effects of a single bout of exercise at 40% of maximum aerobic capacity with regard to alimentary lipemia and postprandial lipoproteins was studied in a cross-over design in 12 young healthy male volunteers. In addition to lipids and lipoproteins, lipoprotein lipase, free glycerol, free fatty acids, plasma insulin, and C-peptide concentrations were quantitated. Postprandial exercise reduced alimentary lipemia by 34% while lipoprotein lipase activity rose by 42%. The postprandial fall of high-density lipoprotein (HDL)3 was abolished and the rise of HDL2 accentuated. Free glycerol and free fatty acid concentrations were higher following the meal plus exercise regimen compared to the meal alone. It is concluded that at least part of the chronic effect of exercise may come from additive effects such as observed from individual bouts of muscular activity.

Psychological, nutritional and physical status of olympic road cyclists

Six members of the Irish Olympic Road Cycling Squad underwent a comprehensive medical, nutritional, psychological and biochemical assessment in January 1983. They were given specific medical and dietary recommendations and were reassessed in January 1984 after a period spanning the competitive racing season. The cyclists' diets at both sessions were comparable and generally conformed with recommended daily intakes. Supplementary ingestion was unnecessary to attain recommended daily intakes of vitamins. Serum levels of HDL-cholesterol increased and triglyceride decreased during the period of the study. The squad had characteristics indicating traits of self-sufficiency, toughness and practical mindedness. At the second assessment there was evidence of heightened ambition and competitiveness and an improvement in mood states with reduced ratings for confusion and tension.