Response of serum C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-α, and heat shock protein 70 levels to trachyspermum copticum and selected swimming training

Abstract

Regular physical activity is the best defense against many diseases, illnesses, and abnormalities. Aerobic exercise and the consumption of herbal supplements strengthen the body's immune and defense systems. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a period of swimming endurance training with trachyspermum copticum (Ajwain) consumption on serum levels of some inflammatory factors in young men in a randomized clinical trial. The statistical population included all male students less than 25 years of age at the Islamic Azad University of Varamin Phishva, Iran. Among them, sample sizes of 60 people were selected by simple random sampling and were divided into four groups of 15 people each: trachyspermum copticum + training, trachyspermum copticum, training, and control. The training program included endurance swimming for 10 weeks either with or without the addition of trachyspermum copticum. Serum concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP), and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) were measured in two-time stages before and after the study period. The level of CRP inflammatory index, TNF-α cytokine, and HSP70 were lower among the training + trachyspermum copticum than in the control group and other experimental groups. Endurance swimming training and trachyspermum copticum with anti-inflammatory properties strengthened the immune system, increased antioxidant defense, and decreased inflammatory markers. Also, the level of physical activity has improved this condition by improving endothelial function.

Keywords

• exercise training
• inflammation
• trachyspermum copticum
• immune system