Effect of Exercise on Salivary Composition and Cortisol in Serum and Saliva in Man

Abstract

The effect of exercise on electrolytes and cortisol levels in serum and saliva was examined in 27 young, healthy male volunteers who performed graded submaximal cycle exercise for nine min at up to 85% of their age-predicted maximal heart rate. Seventeen men performed the Wingate anaerobic test for 30 s. A significant increase in pulse rate and systolic blood pressure and a decrease in diastolic blood pressure were found, and serum concentrations of Na⁺, K⁺, and lactate were significantly elevated immediately after exercise. A non-significant increase in saliva and serum cortisol levels was found. Significantly lowered salivary flow rate and elevated salivary K*, protein, and lactate concentrations were found within ten min after exercise. Salivary Mg²⁺ was significantly elevated after anaerobic exercise only.