Dancing Exercise Enhances Metabolic Functions via Hypercortisolism-Mediated Inhibition of Inflammatory Cytokines in Healthy Adult Volunteers

Abstract

Regular physical activity has been proven to improve metabolism, slow aging, and decrease the likelihood of various health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. Hence, dancing was evaluated for its effects on cardiovascular, liver enzymes, and biochemical markers among healthy adults. Forty (40) healthy adults (20-40 years old) were chosen for the study, with an average age calculated. Those with certain health conditions or habits were not allowed to participate. Twenty (20) men and 20 women were chosen for the study, which involved dancing for 15 minutes a day, five days a week, for four weeks. Pre- and post-dancing groups were compared to measure any changes. Results indicated positive effects on health and well-being. The two groups were compared to analyze changes to cardiovascular, liver enzymes, and lipid profiles over a 4-week dance intervention. Both groups received assessments before and after the program, with the initial assessment taking place at 0 weeks and a follow-up at 4 weeks. This study found that a 4-week period of dancing exercise improved cardiovascular and lipid profiles (p < 0.05) in both genders. These favorable impacts were reflected in lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure, decreased total cholesterol and triglycerides, and lowered LDL with corresponding increases in HDL. This study found that participating in a tailored dance exercise program decreased glucose, insulin, and HOMA index levels compared to pre-exercise levels. Additionally, levels of ALT, AST, and GGT dropped considerably, while ALP and LDH also decreased. Kidney function, including aminotransferase, creatinine, and uric acid, was also reduced after 24 hours of post-dancing exercise. Twenty-four hours of Post-dancing exercise was found to decrease serum IL-6, CRP, and stress hormones (epinephrine and cortisol) levels as well as increased IL-10 levels in healthy adults (P < 0.05). Dancing could be demonstrated to be a practical non-medicinal approach to help prevent metabolic syndrome and reduce inflammation through increased cortisol production in healthy adults.