Effect of 8-week swimming exercise and zinc supplementation on renal function markers following unilateral ureteral obstruction in rats

Background and Aim: Acute kidney diseases impose a significant burden on long-term hospitalizations. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of 8 weeks of swimming exercise and zinc supplementation on renal function markers following unilateral ureteral obstruction in rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 32 nephrectomized rats aged 8-10 weeks and weighing 190-220 grams were randomly divided into 4 groups: 1) nephrectomy control (Nef), 2) swimming training (ST), 3) zinc supplementation (Z), and 4) swimming training + zinc supplementation (ST+Z). Additionally, 8 healthy rats were included as a normal control group to assess the effects of unilateral ureteral obstruction. The ST and ST+Z groups swam for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week, for 20-45 minutes each session in a special animal pool. The Z and ST+Z groups also received 30 mg/kg zinc sulfate daily by gavage. Serum creatinine, hemoglobin, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus levels were measured. Results: Sodium and creatinine levels were significantly lower in the Z, ST, and ST+Z groups compared to the Nef group (P≤0.05). Potassium levels were significantly lower in the Z group compared to the Nef group (P=0.018). Phosphorus levels were significantly lower in the ST+Z group compared to the Nef group (P=0.003). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that exercise and zinc supplementation have interactive effects on improving ion balance and reducing serum creatinine following unilateral ureteral obstruction in animal models. Therefore, it is suggested that the combination of swimming exercise and zinc supplementation be used in conditions of kidney disorders.