October 2003

IN THIS MONTH'S ISSUE

• Hormone Injection Shows Promise In Appetite Regulation
• The Tufts Marathon Challenge
• Reader Questions and Answers
• How quickly do I lose bone after an injury?
• Will solid dumbbells work better than adjustable?
• Will strength training reduce fibromyalgia symptoms?
• From the Mailbox — Success Stories
• Recipe — Baked Apples and Sweet Potatoes

HORMONE SHOWS PROMISE IN APPETITE REGULATION

You may have seen recent reports about a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine on September 4, 2003 that detailed findings about peptide Y3-36 -- referred to as PYY. This hormone, which is naturally occurring in the body, seems to play an important role in appetite regulation.

In this study, conducted at the Imperial College Faculty of Medicine in London, England, researchers examined the affect of an injected dose of PYY on subsequent appetite and food consumption. Twenty-four men and women -- half of whom had a normal body weight and the other half of whom were obese -- were given either PYY or a placebo injection and then sat down for an extensive buffet lunch two hours later. In both groups, when the PYY injection was administered, they ate 30% fewer calories compared to when the placebo injection was given. The researchers also measured each volunteer's baseline level of PYY and found that the volunteers who were obese had less PYY in their body. The authors speculate that these naturally low levels of PYY may have contributed to their obesity in the first place, while other scientists in the field remain skeptical -- wondering if they may have developed low PYY as the result of the obesity.

Those and many other questions remain unanswered. Much more research is needed before any conclusions about PYY can be made. Previously, other hormones such as Leptin were investigated to determine potential benefits in appetite regulation but with disappointing results. The PYY findings are more promising in terms of a potential treatment for obesity, but they are preliminary -- to say the least. In addition, there is absolutely no substitute for healthful nutrition and plenty of exercise -- both confer benefits far beyond weight control alone that pharmocologic options simply cannot provide.

(Reference: RL Batterham and colleagues. Inhibition of Food Intake in Obese Subjects by Peptide YY(3-36). New England Journal of Medicine, Sept 4, 2003. Vol 349(10), pp 941-48.)

THE TUFTS MARATHON CHALLENGE

Twenty years ago, I had the good fortune to run the Boston Marathon -- an experience I will never forget. Anyone who has run the race or who has cheered the runners on from the sidelines knows how exciting the race is for everyone involved. I am now training for the 2004 Boston Marathon as part of the "Tufts Marathon Challenge." Along with Tufts' president Lawrence Bacow, I am organizing this year's challenge.

I am excited to offer Boston Marathon numbers to my strong women readers. We have a limited amount of numbers available for individuals who are interested in joining our team. We will be using the marathon numbers to raise funds to support our nutrition and exercise research and outreach programs. Each person who receives a number will be required to raise a minimum dollar amount for the challenge. Members of our team will be supported every step of the way during the months leading up to the race. If you live in the area, we are organizing weekly runs and have training seminars for you to attend. If you live outside of the Boston area, we will give you support via email and telephone.

This is a rare opportunity to be able to run the Boston Marathon with an enthusiastic team and to help support our programs at Tufts. If you are interested in learning the details of joining our team and running the 2004 Boston Marathon, please contact us at marathonchallenge@tufts.edu (or visit http://marathon.president.tufts.edu). Numbers are limited and available on a first come -- first serve basis, so please contact us as soon as possible if you are interested.

Q: Because of an injury, I could not exercise for four month this past year. At my annual bone density screening, I had dropped from having normal bone density to now being classified as having osteoporosis. Could I have lost this much bone density from just four months of inactivity?

A: While it is certainly possible to lose bone density over a year's span of time and a sedentary lifestyle (especially bed rest) can contribute to that loss substantially, it is unlikely that the four months of inactivity is the only contributing factor. The bone loss may also be the result of hormonal changes that have occurred over the last year (i.e. if you are going through menopause). Also, keep in mind that if you live in a colder climate, bone density also goes through seasonal fluctuation. For instance, if you had the first test in the fall (just after the summer months when your bone density is likely to be its highest), and then the follow-up screening in the spring, that seasonal drop in bone density could be partially responsible. You should speak with your primary care physician or with an endocrinologist, and determine with them the best course of action in terms of exercise, nutrition, and medication, if necessary to help your bone density.

Q: I have been using adjustable dumbbells to do the Strong Women Stay Young program, but my wrists have recently begun bothering me. Do you think switching to solid dumbbells may be helpful since they seem a bit more stable?

A: If you find the solid dumbbells more stable, it is not a bad idea to make the switch, especially as you continue to lift heavier weights. However, you should seek medical help for the wrist pain either way, as it is impossible to say that the adjustable dumbbells are the culprit. Keep in mind that whichever dumbbells you choose, good form is key. Make sure you keep your wrist straight (and in line with the forearms) throughout all of the upper body exercises.

Q: I would like to use the Strong Women exercise program, but I have fibromyalgia and have heard that weight resistance exercise is not recommended with this condition. I attend regular Yoga classes and walk 3 times per week for approx 45 minutes. I find this helps control the pain but also know that I have very weak upper back muscles and a forward head posture. Can you tell me if it is safe to strength train?

A: To date there is no systematic scientific research on the benefits of strength training for people with fibromyalgia, but I often hear from readers with this condition who tell me that exercise has helped them tremendously. Of course, it is important to get medical clearance before starting an exercise program if you have this or any other medical condition. If your doctor has advised you to not strength train, you should not do so -- only a medical professional who knows you personally can determine if it is a safe activity for you. If your doctor does grant you permission to strength train, keep in mind that you will need to start conservatively and progress slowly. Having strong muscles is important for everyone, especially individuals who have chronic medical conditions.

I just received my conference agenda for the Strong Women Summit and wanted you to know how excited I am for November. I have since purchased 2 of your books. I have always been an 'aerobic queen' and have started incorporating strength training into my exercise routine. It is hard to get that same 'high' that I get with aerobic activity, but am realizing the overall benefits I will obtain as I grow older. I also wanted to let you know that I will be running in the Tufts 10k in October. My two daughters age 25 and 22 have convinced me to run it with them. It has been a few years since I have run, but am doing my best to train for it. I feel fortunate at age 48 to be able to participate in this type of event with my girls. I look forward to seeing you in November.

-- Nancy, age 48

Peel, core, and cut apples into medium-sized pieces. Peel and cut sweet potatoes into small pieces. Toss all ingredients in a large mixing bowl, and pour into deep baking dish. Cover and bake at 350 degree for 45-60 minutes, until tender (drain excess juice if necessary). Serve as a side dish with roasted turkey or other main course.