Effects of Exercise Intensity and Inorganic Nitrate Supplementation on Vascular Health and Fitness in Post-Menopausal Females Taking Hormone Therapy
University of Virginia
Summary
This study is examining whether short-term supplementation with inorganic nitrate in the form of beetroot juice can enhance vascular function in postmenopausal females taking hormone therapy compared to placebo.
Description
Menopause is associated with a loss of endogenous nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The FDA "black box" guidelines on menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) to mitigate vasomotor symptoms for postmenopausal females (PMF) were recently withdrawn, stimulating a large uptake in usage. However, HRT does not fully restore NO bioavailability, endothelial function, and the response to exercise stress to premenopausal levels, leaving residual vascular risk. To address this knowledge gap, we will use oral inorganic nitrate supplementation (INS) as an exogenous…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 45–75 years
- Sex
- Female
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: \-- Willingness and ability to comply with schedules and study procedures * Postmenopausal females aged 45-75, defined as having not had a menstrual cycle for at least 1 year * BMI \<35 kg/m2 * Currently taking hormone replacement therapy with transdermal estrogen (spray/gel/patches) combined with progesterone for at least 3 months * MHT regimen started within 10 years of last menses * MHT regimen started before the age of 60 * Physically inactive (less than 3 bouts of moderate exercise per week or less than a total of 150 minutes per week \[i.e. walking at a brisk pace 3…
Interventions
- OtherModerate Intensity Exercise (MIE)
MIE bout of exercise will be completed after 3 days of supplementation with BRJ/placebo. This intensity will be equivalent to the watts at lactate threshold.
- OtherHigh intensity exercise (HIE)
HIE bout of exercise will be completed after 3 days of supplementation with BRJ/placebo. This intensity will be equivalent to the watts at Lactate threshold + 75% ∆ (VO2peak - LT).
- OtherControl (No exercise)
The control session will involve passive rest.
Location
- University of VirginiaCharlottesville, Virginia