| pubmed-article:9148478 | pubmed:abstractText | Three Norwegian physicians crossed the inland glacier of Greenland on skis without any support. Body weight, fat and lean body mass was measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry scanning. Maximal oxygen uptake, lung capacity measurements, and various blood tests were recorded. Subjective health-related well-being and four transistory arousal states were also recorded (GHQ-30 and AD ACL, short form). One participant lost 1 kilo body weight, while the others gained 1 and 4 kilos, respectively, during the trip. Overall, lean body mass increased (1.2-4.0 kg), while body fat was reduced (0.4-2.7 kg). These changes reversed after four weeks. Bone mass, lung function and blood tests did not vary throughout the study period. The level of energy and calmness were high at baseline and even higher towards the end of the expedition, while the scores were low and stable for tiredness and tension. Subjective well-being increased for all participants towards the second half of the trip. We conclude that expeditions involving physical and mental strain can produce positive psychological changes. Catabolic conditions are avoidable. Changes in body mass composition revert quickly. | lld:pubmed |
