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Smoking increases conversion of lactate to glucose during submaximal exercise
M J Huie1, G A Casazza, M A Horning
1Department of Human Biodynamics, University of California, Berkeley 94720, USA.
Summary
Acute smoking increases lactate production during exercise. Smokers also convert lactate to glucose more efficiently than non-smokers, suggesting higher glucose reliance.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Metabolic Biochemistry
Background:
- Smoking affects metabolic processes during exercise.
- Understanding lactate metabolism in smokers is crucial for exercise science.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if acute smoking before exercise elevates lactate production compared to abstinence.
- To determine if smokers exhibit higher lactate to glucose conversion rates during exercise than non-smokers.
Main Methods:
- Utilized [3-13C]lactate infusion during rest and exercise (50% peak O2 consumption) in smokers and non-smokers.
- Smokers were tested under two conditions: post-abstinence and after smoking.
- Measured lactate appearance and conversion to glucose rates.
Main Results:
- Lactate appearance rate was significantly higher in the acute smoking condition compared to chronic smoking with abstinence and non-smokers.
- Lactate to glucose conversion rates were similar between acute smoking and abstinent smokers, but higher than non-smokers.
- Exercise increased lactate appearance and conversion rates in all groups.
Conclusions:
- Acute smoking significantly increases lactate flux during exercise.
- Smokers demonstrate a heightened capacity for lactate to glucose conversion during exercise.
- This suggests a potential increase in glucose dependency among smokers during physical activity.