Evaluating the Cumulative Effect of Hypothermia and Hypoxia on Substrate Metabolism in Humans at Rest

The ‘Obesity Epidemic’ is a major issue faced by western society today. Physical activity is known to directly correlate with reduced body fat, increased strength, and an improved overall sense of health and wellness. However, a majority of the population, for various reasons, is not physically active. These reasons can vary from the lack of financial or social support to lack of intrinsic motivation to be physically active, and in some cases, being virtually unable to engage in physical activity. Keeping this in mind, the purpose of this study is to artificially alter environmental conditions to elicit a post-metabolic response in humans that leads to lipid oxidation even when at rest. The environmental conditions used for this study are cold (hypothermia) and a reduced concentration of oxygen (hypoxia). The partner organization has a vested interest in this study as its primary goal is to increase awareness towards physical activity at all ages by offering programs that cater to different demographics in society. They hope that the outcome of this study leads to the design and manufacture of portable devices that can simulate hypoxic and hypothermic conditions allowing them to pioneer the use of this novel form of easy, effortless weight-loss.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Fabien Basset

Student:

Rahul Roy

Partner:

Peak Fitness and Wellness Inc.

Discipline:

Kinesiology

Sector:

Sports and recreation

University:

Memorial University of Newfoundland