Depression affects approximately 8% of adults at some point in their lifetime, with particularly high rates during young adulthood. In many cases depressed mood is associated with high levels of inflammation. Given that exercise improves mood and regulates the immune system, we are testing the hypothesis that exercise may reduce inflammation to improve mood. Regular engagement in an exercise program may be effective at reducing negative mood for individuals at risk of depression. We are also examining different exercise regimens to identify the optimal exercise program for improving mood. Through a program of regular physical exercise, individuals may not only gain control over their physical health but also their mental health.
Mental Health & Physical Activity
Heart rate, cycling wattage, and rate of perceived exertion are electronically monitored and recorded.
Participants undergo 12-weeks of high-intensity interval training on a stationary cycle ergometer.
Serum measurements include:
cytokines
(IL-6, IL1-b, TNF-a)
and cortisol
Blood samples are processed and stored in a -80 degrees celsius freezer until the analysis.
Serum samples are collected through blood once per week before and after exercise.
PRESS
The Hamilton Spectator [READ IT HERE]
"The antidote to chronic stress is chronic
exercise"
April 28, 2016
Op-Ed by Dr. Jennifer J. Heisz & Emily Paolucci
The Walrus Talks Healthy Cities
"We can make our communities stronger
by reducing the stigma of mental illness"
February 10, 2016
"An individual can live in the mild stages of Alzheimer's disease for decades. In this stage, damage is localized to the hippocampus meaning that despite their changes in memory, the individual is still very capable, very intelligent, and very aware, wanting and deserving our respect."
Talk by Dr. Jennifer Heisz
Assistant Professor, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University
Allison, D., Nederveen, J., Snijders, T., Bell, K., Kumbhare, D., Philips, S., Parise, G., and Heisz, J.J. (2019). Exercise training impacts skeletal muscle gene expression related to the kynurenine pathway in older men. American Journal of Physiology: Cell Physiology.
Lucibello, K., Parker, J., and Heisz, J.J. (2019). Examining the impact of chronic training on the state anxiety response to an acute bout of aerobic exercise in low and high anxious individuals. Journal of Affective Disorders, 247, 29-35.
Paolucci, E., Loukov, D., Bowdish, D.M.E., and Heisz, J.J. (2018). Exercise reduces depression and inflammation but intensity matters. Biological Psychology, 133, 79-84.
Heisz, J. J., Tejada, M.G.M., Paolucci, E.M., and Muir C. (2016). Enjoyment for High-Intensity Interval Exercise Increases during the First Six Weeks of Training: Implications for Promoting Exercise Adherence in Sedentary Adults. PLOS ONE,11(12): e0168534. FULL ARTICLE
Paolucci, E., and Heisz, J.J. (2015). Investigating the protective effects of high and moderate intensity cycling on psychological stress and depression in young adults. Journal of Exercise, Movement, and Sport. 47(1).
SELECT PUBLICATIONS
McMaster Daily News [READ IT HERE]
"Big Ideas, healthier communities"
February 12, 2016
Expert Opinion by Dr. Jennifer J. Heisz
The Hamilton Spectator [READ IT HERE]
"Getting to know your neighbour is key to
a healthy community, forum hears"
February 10, 2016
Expert Opinion by Dr. Jennifer J. Heisz
Dr. Jennifer J. Heisz | Associate Professor | Department of Kinesiology | Ivor Wynne Centre, Room E206 | McMaster University | 1280 Main Street West | Hamilton, Ontario L8S4L8