The aim of the project "Life style and levels of menstrual cycle hormones in reproductive age women" is to investigate the relationship between various lifestyle factors and the level of the ovarian hormones: progesterone and 17-beta-estradiol. In particular, it focuses on how diet, physical activity, stress and psychological characteristics affect the level of secretion of these hormones during the menstrual cycle. It also assesses the changes of cortisol levels (stress hormone) in response to psychological stress in daily life of women. The project involves 150 women in the age of peak secretion of progesterone and estradiol e.g. between 25 and 35 years. The project is funded by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education and directed by dr Anna Ziomkiewicz-Wichary
Why would I want to examine the hormones?
Estradiol and progesterone are primarily responsible for the fertility of women. In particular, they control the occurrence of menstrual cycles. Appropriate concentrations of these two hormones are necessary for ovulation and fertilization. They are also responsible for the uterus changes during the menstrual cycle, proper pregnancy progress and child development in the womb.
But the action of progesterone and estradiol is not only limited to control the reproductive function. Receptors (the places of the attachment to the cell) of these hormones are present in almost every tissue and every organ of female body. Estradiol is responsible among other, for the appropriate state of the bones - its low level may lead to loss of bone tissue and osteoporosis development. Smooth skin and flexible joints are also the effect of the adequate concentrations of these hormones. Levels of estradiol and progesterone are associated with the cardiovascular and nervous system proper functioning. Result of studies show that the high levels of progesterone and estradiol during life are also significantly associated with development of breast, ovary and uterus cancer.
Cortisol is called the "stress hormone" and secreted in response to increasing levels of psychological stress. Its role is to mobilize energy from the body essential to cope with the difficulties of life. Under normal conditions this body's response to stress is adaptive, however, when the stress action is prolonged in time (chronic stress occurs) increased levels of cortisol lead to adverse changes in the body. In response to chronic stress immune function are inhibited resulting in higher susceptibility of organism to infections. Studies also suggest a contribution of stress in the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Constantly increased cortisol level may be a marker of adrenal glands disease.
What's investigating?
In the course of the project, we collect the following data: 1. Anthropometric measurements - qualified assistant takes measurements of body height and seating height, weight, body fat content, muscle mass and body circumferences. 2. The concentrations of hormones - levels of metabolites of 17-beta-estradiol, progestron and cortisol are analyzed in the urine samples, collected during entire menstrual cycle. 3. Diet – we identify the composition of the diet, the quantity of calory intake, and the content of particular nutrients. 3. Physical activity – we estimate daily physical activity and the sum of individual physical activity during entire menstrual cycle. 4. The intensity of stress and vulnerability to stress. 5. The characteristics of temperament
Project results are freely available to participants.
Press
Polska The Times - Gazeta Wrocławska;
Słodkie życie - Telemedyczna Platforma Społecznościowa;
Nasze Miasto - Wrocław;
Dzień Dobry TVN - Zdrowie