[The combined effect of potable mineral waters and mid-alpine factors on hormonal status (clinico-experimental...

Hormonal status was examined in 30 intact male Wistar rats (body mass 200-220 g) and 10 healthy male volunteers aged 25-35 years. Hormonal status and influence of exercise were assessed in human males after 2, 10 and 19 days of stay in the sanatorium situated 2000 m above the sea level. The animals were decapitated on day 24 of their stay in the mountains. Blood from the rats' cervical vessels was examined for glucose, beta-lipoproteins, triiodothyronine, thyroxine, TTH, hydrocortisone. The findings indicate that stay in conditions of medium-height mountains climate aroused adaptation reactions in the hormonal systems, i.e. activation of thyroid hormones. An additional course of mineral water contributed to further rise of the blood hormones. Hormonal trends in the volunteers were similar. There was also a rise in the levels of beta-lipoproteins which was arrested by physical exercise.