Deviations from maximum weight predict high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in runners: the National Runners' Health Study

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The inverse relationship between adiposity and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is well established, however, we believe that its usual representation lacks an important dimension. The purpose of this study is to test whether the relationship depends upon past weight history in addition to current weight. DESIGN: Physician-supplied medical data were compared to questionnaires from a national cross-sectional survey. SUBJECTS: 6847 men who ran between zero and 171 km per week. MEASUREMENTS: Self-reported current weight, greatest lifetime weight and body circumferences were compared to physician-supplied data for plasma concentrations of HDL cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. RESULTS: Current HDL-cholesterol levels were greatest in those runners with the greatest weight loss since their maximum lifetime weight and the greatest reductions in circumference of their waist, hip, and chest since their maximum weight. Plasma levels of triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, and total cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol were also significantly lower for runners showing the greatest decreases in total and regional adiposity since their maximum weight. The results remained significant when adjusted for current body mass index and running mileage. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the lipoprotein concentrations of runners are in part dependent upon whether the current weight is relatively high or low within the historical range of weights experienced by the individual.