Effect of Whole-Body Electrical Muscle Stimulation Training on Inflammatory and Anti-inflammatory Cytokines in Overweight Men

Abstract

Background : The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of whole-body electrical muscle stimulation (WB-EMS) training on inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in overweight men. Methods : We divided 30 participants into EMS and control groups. The training program for the EMS group comprised 20 WB-EMS sessions (7 weeks, three sessions per week). Results : The results showed that EMS training caused significant increase in interferon γ (P<0.001) and interleukin 10 (IL-10; P<0.01) and significant decrease in IL-17 and IL-23 (P<0.05). Also, the lipid profile showed significant positive changes in the EMS training group. Conclusion : EMS training, a novel exercise method that uses electric stimulation, can affect the levels of various cytokines that are involved in inflammation and immunity. EMS training can have both beneficial and harmful effects on the body depending on the type and balance of involved cytokines.

Keywords

• cytokines
• anti-inflammatory agents
• exercise
• overweight