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Hormonal changes in serum in young men during prolonged physical strain
European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology
|October 20, 1978
Summary
Severe physical strain and sleep deprivation in army personnel disrupt endocrine function, significantly altering thyroid hormones, suppressed TSH, prolactin, and testosterone levels. Short sleep periods effectively reversed these physiological changes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Human Physiology
- Military Medicine
Background:
- Severe physical strain and sleep deprivation are common in military operations.
- Understanding the endocrine system's response is crucial for soldier health and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the endocrine response to prolonged physical strain and sleep deprivation.
- To assess the impact on thyroid hormones, TSH, prolactin, growth hormone, and testosterone.
Main Methods:
- Study conducted on army personnel during a 5-day combat course.
- Serum hormone levels (T4, T3, TSH, prolactin, growth hormone, testosterone) were measured.
- Effects of short sleep periods (3-6 hours) were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) levels showed initial increases followed by declines.
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) was suppressed during the course.
- Prolactin was suppressed, growth hormone elevated, and testosterone markedly suppressed.
- Short sleep periods reversed hormonal changes, particularly for growth hormone, prolactin, and testosterone.
Conclusions:
- Combat conditions induce significant endocrine disruptions.
- Hormonal imbalances include altered thyroid function, suppressed TSH, prolactin, and testosterone, with elevated growth hormone.
- Restorative sleep is vital for mitigating these physiological stressors.