The Effect of Combined Aerobic-Resistance Exercise on Interleukin-10 Levels, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio, Cognitive and Walking Functions in Obese Elderly Men

Background and purpose: Aging is a complex process characterized by multiple cellular and molecular disorders, gradually leading to a decline in physiological and cognitive functions. In this context, the prevalence of obesity, a key factor that exacerbates these issues, is increasing. This study aimed to examine the impact of a combined exercise intervention on interleukin-10 levels, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, cognitive performance, and gait performance in obese elderly men. Materials and methods: This randomized clinical trial (IRCT20200509047372N1) included 40 obese elderly men (mean age: 61.90± 2.84 years; BMI: 31.01 ± 1.53 kg/m²), who were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n= 20) or a control group (n= 20). The intervention group participated in a combined exercise regimen for 16 weeks, with three sessions per week, each lasting 90 minutes. Plasma levels of interleukin-10, VEGF, and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, as well as cognitive and gait performance, were measured 48 hours before and after the intervention. Data normality was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, and statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests and ANCOVA at a significance level of 0.05, with SPSS version 26. Results: The findings indicated that the combined exercise intervention significantly improved cognitive and gait performance in the experimental group (P= 0.001). Additionally, interleukin-10 and VEGF levels increased significantly in the experimental group (P=0.001). However, no significant differences were observed in BMI or weight between the two groups (P> 0.05). Similarly, no significant changes were found in the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in either group (P > 0.05). Conclusion: These findings suggest that combined exercise may enhance cognitive and gait performance while increasing interleukin-10 and VEGF levels in obese elderly men. However, this exercise intensity did not significantly affect the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. (Clinical Trials Registry Number: IRCT20200509047372N1)