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Increased cortisol production in women runners
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|July 1, 1986
Summary
Running women, both with and without menstrual cycles, exhibit elevated cortisol secretion. This suggests increased adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) secretion in female athletes, impacting their endocrine function.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Sports Medicine
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Previous research indicated elevated basal serum cortisol in women runners.
- Adrenocortical function requires detailed examination in athletes with varying menstrual status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate detailed adrenocortical function in amenorrheic running women (AR), eumenorrheic running women (R), and normal nonexercising women (NC).
- To compare cortisol secretion and response to ACTH stimulation among these groups.
Main Methods:
- Measured 24-h urinary cortisol levels.
- Assessed serum cortisol response to exogenous ACTH (1-24) after dexamethasone suppression.
- Determined cortisol disappearance rates and cortisol-binding globulin levels.
Main Results:
- Significantly elevated mean 24-h urinary cortisol levels were observed in both AR and R groups compared to NC.
- No significant differences in serum cortisol response to ACTH stimulation or cortisol disappearance rates were found among the groups after dexamethasone suppression.
- Cortisol-binding globulin levels were similar across all groups.
Conclusions:
- Running women demonstrate higher cortisol secretion, indicating increased adrenocortical activity.
- The findings suggest a potential increase in ACTH secretion in running women.
- Adrenocortical function, particularly cortisol secretion, is altered in female athletes.