Physical Activity, Life Events Stress, Cortisol, and DHEA: Preliminary Findings That Physical Activity May Buffer Against the Negative Effects of Stress

Citation

Heaney JLJ, Carroll D & Phillips AC (2014) Physical Activity, Life Events Stress, Cortisol, and DHEA: Preliminary Findings That Physical Activity May Buffer Against the Negative Effects of Stress. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 22 (4), pp. 465-473. https://doi.org/10.1123/japa.2012-0082

Abstract
The present study examined the relationship between habitual physical activity, life events stress, the diurnal rhythms of cortisol and DHEA, and the cortisol:dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) ratio in older adults. Thirty-six participants aged ≥ 65 reported their habitual physical activity, and indicated if a particular event happened to them in the past year (stress incidence) and how stressful they perceived the event to be (stress severity). Older adults with higher stress severity demonstrated a significantly higher cortisol:DHEA ratio. Individuals with higher stress incidence scores and who did not participate in aerobic exercise had a significantly higher cortisol:DHEA ratio and flatter DHEA diurnal rhythm compared with those who regularly participated in aerobic exercise. In conclusion, life events stress may have a negative impact on the cortisol:DHEA ratio in older adults. Under conditions of high stress exposure, exercise may protect older adults from an increased cortisol:DHEA ratio and flatter DHEA diurnal rhythm.

Keywords
cortisol; DHEA ratio; diurnal; physical activity; life events stress; older adults;

Journal
Journal of Aging and Physical Activity: Volume 22, Issue 4

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Professor Anna Whittaker

Professor of Behavioural Medicine, Sport