Evaluating the Efficacy of Various Modalities to Improve Arterial Stiffness

Abstract

Evaluating the Efficacy of Different Modalities to Improve Arterial Stiffness Corey Moore Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with an increase in cardiovascular (CV) mortality, partially due to arterial stiffening, which can be measured non-invasively via pulse wave velocity (PWV). Arterial stiffness is a clinically relevant CV marker of mortality, an increase in PWV by only 1 SD is associated with an increased CV risk of 15%. Land based aerobic exercise, both chronic and acute, has previously been identified as an effective method for improving arterial health. Unfortunately, land based aerobic exercise is not feasible for all populations, therefore a more effective treatment modality must be elucidated. Aquatic exercise has previously been shown to be beneficial for reducing blood pressure, as well as PWV. Fruit and vegetable (F&V) consumption has been shown to decrease CV mortality, although the mechanism of action has yet to be fully elucidated. We tested the following hypotheses: 1) 8 week of dietary intervention, with increased fruit and vegetable consumption, as well as decreased complex carbohydrate and decreased fat consumption, will improve arterial hemodynamics 2) 8 weeks of aquatic exercise intervention will improve the PWV in women with MetS. iii Acknowledgements: My time working on my Master of Science in Exercise Physiology has been trying and mentally stimulating time. There were times when I was pushed to my wits end, but I knew that I needed to persevere. My passion for learning, education, and medicine were some of my major motivators to push through, but that doesn't even come close to the support that I have received from my friends, family, and mentors. All of this support has pushed me to be the best that I can be and do everything to the best of my capabilities. First and foremost, I would like to sincerely express my gratitude to my advisor Dr. Paul Chantler. He pushed me to be my best with a unique amalgam of encouragement, thought provoking questions, and strange British phrases, most of which I still I am still unsure the meaning. I truly appreciate your patience with me as I developed my skills, knowledge, and confidence over the past 2 years.