Effect of aerobic training on depression and thyroid function in treated hypothyroid women

INTRODUCTION: Hypothyroidism is commonly associated with depression and a slowing in mental activity. OBJECTIVES: The current investigation aimed to investigate the effect of aerobic training on depression and thyroid function in treated hypothyroid females. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Thirty women diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism that was regulated and accompanied by mild to moderate levels of depression completed a 12-week randomized controlled exercise trial involving two equal groups: aerobic (n = 15) and control (n = 15) groups. The exercising group performed three sessions of aerobic exercise per week at low to moderate intensity for 12 consecutive weeks while the control group performed no exercise intervention during the same duration. At baseline and post-intervention, Beck Depression Inventory score (BDIS), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxin (T4) were assessed. RESULTS: The exercising group showed significant improvements in BDIS, TSH and free T4 compared to baseline (p < 0.05) with negligible change in the control group (p > 0.05). As compared to the control, all measured items differed significantly in favor to the aerobic training group. CONCLUSION: In women with treated hypothyroidism, aerobic training can minimize depressive symptoms and enhance thyroid function.