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Women who are physically
fit may be able to ward off the effect of stress on their
body and therefore possibly giving them better protection
against developing high blood pressure. Physically fit women
have a lessened blood pressure response to stress, which may
be why fit women have less of a risk for developing hypertension
and coronary heart disease.
The reason why
this study was different is that previous studies looking
at this issue failed to take into account physical
fitness, gender or control for factors such as anger and
discomfort.
What kinds of
stressors were used?
In the study, the
researchers first placed 13 men and 13 women aged 19 to 38
with above-average physical activity levels on stationary
bikes and measured their cardiac and respiratory fitness.
The investigators
then increased mental stress by asking participants to answer
a math question and then increased physical stress by either
placing a cold compress to their forehead or immersing their
right hand in cold water for 2 minutes.
What was measured?
The researchers
measured the participants' blood pressure, heart rate, blood
flow and breathing rate. They also took into account each
individual's anger, discomfort and perceived difficulty while
taking the tests.
What were the
results of the study?
While the participants'
hands were immersed in ice water, the women's systolic blood
pressure -- the upper number in a blood-pressure reading --
rose. Women with the highest fitness levels were less likely
to have this reaction than less-fit women.
Psychophysiology
2002;39:568-576
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