Fitness or Fatness: Which is More Important for Adiponectin Levels?

PURPOSE: From the standpoint of preventive medicine, the relative importance of fitness versus fatness in contributing atherogenic status seems still controversial. The purpose of this study was to examine the contribution of fitness and fatness on the levels of adiponectin, which is the key adipocytokine to develop metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. METHODS: Study participants included 78 apparently healthy young male (average 20 yrs), 52 of athletic and 26 of liberal art students. Subjects had their anthropometric parameters, basic blood markers, CRP, adiponectin levels, and fitness status (daily activity by questionnaire method) measured. RESULTS: Fundamental parameters are shown in table. The greater BMI in athletes compared to art students may be due to larger volume of muscle bulk in athletes. Total cholesterol levels were lower in athletes than in art students. Athletic students declared higher levels of daily activity compared to art students; nevertheless, there was no statistical difference in adiponectin levels. On the other hand, regression analysis demonstrated that adiponectin levels were closely correlated with fatness measures, BMI (r=−0.32, p < 0.001) and waist (r=−0.39, p < 0.0001). In addition, adiponectin levels were also correlated with atherogenic risk factors, blood pressure (r=−0.37, p < 0.001), HDL-cholesterol (r=0.41, p < 0.0001), and CRP levels (r=−0.46, p < 0.0001).TableCONCLUSION: In conclusion, fatness, not fitness, seems important for adiponectin levels. Even in young college students, low adiponectin-related atherogenic status might exist.