Based on the systematic literature review conducted on the effects of physical activity on cortisol levels and sleep outcomes, here is a report summarizing the key findings and implications:
1. Background:
Managing stress and achieving good quality sleep are crucial for overall health, and physical activity plays a significant role in influencing both factors.
Despite the established bidirectional relationship between stress and sleep, few studies have focused on the impact of physical activity on cortisol (a stress biomarker) and sleep, especially in older adults.
2. Methods:
The review followed PRISMA guidelines and included original intervention studies such as randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs with relevant control groups.
Eligible studies focused on adults or older adults participating in physical activity programs, with cortisol and sleep measurements as outcomes.
3. Results:
Ten original studies with low-to-moderate risk of bias were included in the review.
The review found moderate- and low-certainty evidence suggesting that physical activity effectively lowers cortisol levels and improves sleep quality.
However, the generalizability of these findings to the broader population is limited due to the predominant inclusion of participants with breast cancer, few males, and no older adults in the studies.
4. Conclusion:
Physical activity programs show promise in regulating cortisol levels and improving sleep outcomes.
The benefits may be especially relevant for adults with long-term conditions or existing poor mental health.
More research is needed, particularly focusing on males, older adults, and diverse populations, to better understand the relationship between physical activity, cortisol, and sleep across different demographics.
5. Recommendations:
Encourage regular physical activity as part of health promotion strategies, considering its potential benefits for stress management and sleep quality.
Prioritize research efforts towards understanding the specific mechanisms by which physical activity influences cortisol regulation and sleep patterns in various population groups.
Develop tailored physical activity interventions targeting specific health conditions or age-related factors to optimize stress reduction and sleep improvement outcomes.
6. Limitations:
Limited diversity in participant demographics across included studies hinders broader applicability.
Variability in intervention types, durations, and outcome measures among studies may influence result generalizability.
The need for more robust studies, including larger sample sizes and diverse populations, to strengthen evidence and inform targeted interventions.
This report underscores the importance of physical activity not only for physical health but also for stress management and sleep quality, highlighting avenues for future research and tailored intervention strategies.
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