The Effect of Endurance and Resistance Training on Serum Level of Orexin A, Lipid Profiles and Food Intake in Male Rats: An Experimental Study

Since orexin regulates food intake and energy expenditure, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of endurance and resistance training on serum levels of orexin A, lipid profiles and dietary intake of healthy rats. In this experimental study, 32 healthy Wistar rats (8 weeks old) with a weight range of 265±22 were randomly divided into three groups (control, endurance training and resistance training). The exercise groups performed regular endurance and resistance training for 8 weeks. 24 hours after the last session of blood serum test, rats were collected to study serum levels of orexin A and lipid profiles. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test. The endurance training (p=0.04) and resistance training (p=0.011) significantly decreased serum levels of orexin A compared to the control group. Endurance training (p=‏0.012) and resistance training (p=0.023) significantly decreased insulin resistance index compared to control group. Also, a significant decrease in serum triglyceride (p=0.001) and LDL (p=0.002) in the endurance training group and a significant decrease in serum triglyceride levels (p=0.017) and a significant increase in HDL (p=0.011) in the resistance training group compared to the control group. The mean of consumed food in the endurance training group (p=0.03) and resistance training group (p‏=‏0.18) decreased significantly compared to the control group. It seems that endurance and resistance training reduces serum levels of orexin A, which results in a decrease in food intake, lipid profiles and insulin resistance index.