Improving Fitness and Well-being in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome - The NEAT Way

Priyanka Pinto; Poonam Parulekar

Volume : VII, Issue : VIII, August - 2018

Improving Fitness and Well-being in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome - The NEAT Way

Priyanka Pinto, Poonam Parulekar

Abstract :

Introduction:Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrine disorder results from abnormal functioning of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian (HPO) axis with probable genetic contributions. Its clinical manifestations may include: menstrual irregularities, signs of androgen excess, anovulation, obesity, insulin resistance, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular events, anxiety and depression.Non–exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), is the thermogenesis or energy expended for everything that we do other than volitional exercise. It ranges from activities of daily living, fidgeting, spontaneous muscle contraction and maintaining posture, when not recumbent. NEAT varies between two people of the similar size because of people�s different occupations and leisure–time activities

Methodology:As per inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 subjects were included in the study and were assessed using PCOSQ, BMI, waist circumference, YMCA 3–min step test, vital capacity and sit–and–reach test. A list of the subject�s ADLs were recorded. According to the NEAT principles, the subjects were given a personalized, modified list of 30 activities which were monitored by themselves and the therapist.The subjects had to maintain a record of the activities, out of which at least 10 had to be performed on a daily basis. Intervention program of four weeks was performed on the subjects.Post intervention evaluation was conducted with the same outcome measures.Results were recorded and analysed using Paired T–test.

Result:There was a significant decrease in the pre and post symptoms of PCOS on the PCOSQ, BMI, Waist Circumference, YMCA 3–min Step Test and an increase in the pre and post Vital Capacity and flexibility in Sit and Reach Test.

Conclusion:This study concludes that NEAT is effective in improving fitness and well–being in women with PCOS. There was a significant improvement in the parameters of PCOSQ, BMI, waist circumference, YMCA 3–min step test, vital capacity and sit–and–reach test.