Effect of alternate nostril breathing on acute stress-induced changes in cardiovascular parameters in obese young adults

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a major problem in young adults. They are more prone to develop hypertension. Cold pressor test (CPT) is an autonomic function test which produces acute stress. Alternate nostril breathing (ANB) exercise may be helpful in reducing the elevated sympathetic activity in obese and may be helpful in coping up the stress in obese subjects. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the present study was to find out the effect of ANB on acute stress-induced changes in cardiovascular parameters in obese young adults. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 obese male subjects (body mass index > 30) participated in the present study. CPT was performed to induce acute stress. Cardiovascular parameters were recorded using impedance cardiovasograph and mercury sphygmomanometer before CPT and in recovery phase in Step 1 and were repeated in Step 2 with ANB exercise. Statistical analysis was done by one-way ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc tests. Results: The study results showed that all the cardiovascular parameters were significantly higher (P < 0.05) immediately after CPT in Steps 1 and 2 and in recovery phase of Step 1. However, all cardiovascular parameters returned to baseline in recovery phase of Step 2 with ANB. Conclusion: Results indicate that ANB exercise modulates the cardiovascular changes produced by acute stress in obese subjects leading to faster recovery and reduces the sympathetic activity with increase in parasympathetic activity.