Chronic effects of two different exercise models on plasma homocysteine level

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to compare the chronic effects of aerobic and resistance exercises on plasma homocysteine (Hcy) level and other risks for cardiovascular disease.Material and methods: 38 individuals mean aged 21.68±1.38 years were included the present study. Participants were divided into three groups as aerobic exercise (n=13), resistance exercise (n=13) and control group (n=12). Exercises were done 4 times a week during 12 weeks. Control group (n=12) didn?t join any exercise. Blood analyses (plasma Hcy, vitamin and lipid levels), anthropometric measurements (waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio) were done and maximum aerobic capacity was assessed.Results: It was found that plasma Hcy level and lipid profile didn?t change significantly in exercise groups and control group after 12 weeks (p>0.05). Body mass index, waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio decreased in both exercise groups (p<0.05). Maximal aerobic capacity improved in aerobic exercise group (p<0.05) whereas resistance exercise and control group didn?t change. Hcy was positively correlated with the parameters which may effect it such as waist circumference (r=0,392 p=0.22) and waist-to-hip ratio (r=0,501 p=0.02) and negatively correlated with folic acid level (r= -0,447 p=0.01). It was determined that the folic acid level was the essential factor for Hcy level respect to multiple regression analysis (p=0.03, R2=0.60).Conclusion: Submaximal aerobic or resistance exercise training doesn?t change homocysteine level when folic acid level at normal values in blood. Independent from the type of exercise, exercise training didn?t considerably change lipid profiles in normolipidemic individuals. Additionally, regular exercise improves body composition and aerobic capacity.Key Words: Homocysteine, lipids, exercise.