THE EFFECT OF PROLONGED EXERCISE ON LIPID PEROXIDATION IN EUMENORRHEIC FEMALE ENDURANCE RUNNERS.

Abstract

1834 Recently a protective role has been demonstrated for estrogens as free radical scavengers. In this study lipid peroxidation was evaluated in eumenorrheic runners before and after participation in a half-marathon. Nine female athletes who participated in regular training (average 25 miles/wk) and reported regular menses (12/yr) were recruited. Subject's mean BMI was 22.56±2.77,% fat 24.11±8.21, ht 65.5±2.48 cm. and weight 62.6±9.1 kg. Pre-race fasting bloodwork included determination of subject's mean level of estradiol, (63.22±44.87) total cholesterol(166.78±41.1) and HDL-C (61.33±13.03). LDL oxidation was determined by the formation of conjugated dienes at rest (fasting) and 5 min following completion of the race. Results showed a significant increase in lag phase time of conjugated dienes following prolonged exercise (baseline 27.06±5.05 min vs. post-race 34.56±3.96 min, p<.05). No correlation between mean levels of estradiol and mean lipid peroxidation levels at rest, 5 min following exercise, or difference (post-pre) was observed. It is concluded that prolonged endurance exercise does not increase potential for lipid peroxidation in trained eumenorrheic females who report normal menses.