Peer-Reviewed Research: The Effect of Qigong on Internally Generated Antioxidants
The article titled "The Effect of Guang-Im-Ju-Jai-Gong Qigong Promoting Program on Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) Anti-Oxidative Capacity in Metabolic Syndrome" by Thongthawee et al. examines the impact of a specific Qigong exercise regimen on oxidative stress markers in individuals with Metabolic Syndrome (Mets). Mets is a significant health concern globally, associated with a cluster of conditions such as obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance, which contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases. The study's primary objective was to explore whether the Guang-Im-Ju-Jai-Gong Qigong (GQ) Promoting Program could enhance anti-oxidative capacity, thereby potentially mitigating the risk of vascular diseases in this population.
Study Design and Methods
The study employed a randomized controlled trial design, enrolling 55 sedentary female participants aged 40-65 years with diagnosed Metabolic Syndrome. Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which participated in the GQ promoting program, or a control group that received health education and continued with usual activities. The intervention involved 12 weeks of Qigong practice, comprising one hour per day, four times a week. The researchers measured Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), a biomarker of anti-oxidative capacity, as well as peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) and blood pressure before and after the intervention.
Key Findings
The results demonstrated significant improvements in the intervention group across several health markers. Specifically, the FRAP levels in the Qigong group increased significantly from baseline, indicating an enhanced anti-oxidative capacity. Additionally, participants in the intervention group showed a significant increase in VO2peak, reflecting improved aerobic fitness, and a notable reduction in systolic blood pressure. These findings suggest that the GQ promoting program may be effective in reducing oxidative stress and improving cardiovascular health in individuals with Metabolic Syndrome.
Discussion
The study's findings align with previous research indicating that Qigong, as a mind-body practice, can positively influence health outcomes, particularly by reducing oxidative stress and improving cardiovascular function. The increase in FRAP levels suggests that the GQ promoting program enhances the body's ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are implicated in endothelial dysfunction and the progression of atherosclerosis in individuals with Mets. The improvement in VO2peak and the reduction in systolic blood pressure further support the potential of Qigong as a therapeutic intervention for managing Metabolic Syndrome.
The authors discuss the mechanisms underlying these benefits, noting that Qigong integrates both mental and physical components, which together contribute to its health-promoting effects. The practice emphasizes relaxation, focused breathing, and slow, deliberate movements, which are believed to enhance parasympathetic activity, reduce stress hormone levels, and promote vasodilation. These physiological changes are likely responsible for the observed improvements in oxidative capacity and cardiovascular function.
Strengths and Limitations
One of the study's strengths is its rigorous design, including the use of randomization and control groups, which enhances the validity of the findings. Additionally, the use of objective measures such as FRAP and VO2peak provides robust evidence of the intervention's efficacy. However, the study has some limitations. The sample size is relatively small and limited to female participants, which may restrict the generalizability of the findings to other populations, including males and younger or older individuals. Furthermore, the study does not explore the long-term effects of the GQ promoting program, leaving it unclear whether the observed benefits are sustained over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study by Thongthawee et al. provides compelling evidence that the Guang-Im-Ju-Jai-Gong Qigong promoting program can significantly improve anti-oxidative capacity, aerobic fitness, and blood pressure in women with Metabolic Syndrome. These findings support the use of Qigong as a complementary therapy for managing oxidative stress and reducing cardiovascular risk in this population. Future research should aim to confirm these findings in larger and more diverse populations and explore the long-term sustainability of the benefits associated with Qigong practice.
Reference
Thongthawee, B., Sangwatanaroj, S., & Sanguanrungsirikul, S. (2017). The Effect of Guang-Im-Ju-Jai-Gong Qigong Promoting Program on Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) Anti-Oxidative Capacity in Metabolic Syndrome. Songklanagarind Journal of Nursing, 37(1), 1-9
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