Effect of obesity on parasympathetic nervous system

• Author Details:   
• Supriya Bajirao Sakhare
• Ajit Ashok Holkunde

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In the present study, obese subjects (body Mass Index >30 kg/m²) and non-obese subjects (Body Mass Index <25kg/m²) were selected with to study the effect of obesity on the parasympathetic nervous system. To test the functioning of parasympathetic nervous system in these two groups, heart rate variation during deep expiration and during deep inspiration (E/I ratio) as well as heart rate variation during supine and immediately in standing position (30:15 ratio) were calculated. The expiration/inspiration ratio was significantly lower in obese subjects, as compared to non-obese subjects. Thus, obesity is associated with altered parasympathetic nervous system which may result in various cardiovascular complications.

Keywords: Body Mass Index, Expiration/inspiration ratio, Parasympathetic nervous system.