The Evaluation of basic and neurohormonal parameters in hot or cold temperament person proposed in Iranian Traditional Medicine: an observational study

Abstract

Objective: Much of energy for life sustainment is consumed as the Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). Temperament is one of the core concepts in Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM). The aim of this study is to assess the BMR and activity of the sympathetic-parasympathetic nervous system and thyroid function in hot and cold temperament people. Our study is a repeated cross-sectional study that was implemented in two stages of 45 healthy volunteers.
 Methods: BMR was evaluated by indirect calorimetry. Thyroid function, sympathetic-parasympathetic nervous system activity, body composition, and nutrition status were also evaluated. We used an independent T-test for data analysis by SPSS ver. 16.
 Results: Overall, 45 patients aged 18-40 participated in this study. Our results showed that the mean of BMRs were respectively 1664.09 kcals and 1909.48 kcals in cold and hot temperament individuals (P<0.3). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate peripheral temperature of individuals with hot temperament were significantly higher (P<0.05), While no statistically significant difference was seen in norepinephrine to epinephrine ratio, norepinephrine to cortisol ratio and core temperature. T3 and TSH levels were respectively 1.99 and 1.26 in cold temperament individuals and 1.38 and 1.40 in hot temperament individuals (P<0.05).
 Conclusion: It shows signs that there is a relationship between the BMR and neurohormonal system and body temperament meaning cold temperament people have lower BMR, sympathetic nervous system activity and thyroid function in comparison to others. Body health is negatively affected by BMR fluctuations. With regarding to this correspondence, the arrangement of a pattern for better BMR regulation is crucial.