Blood lactate as a biomarker of depression: a comparative study between runners and sedentary people

ABSTRACT

Abstract Aim: The main objective of this work is to investigate whether recreational running, considered an aerobic exercise, would stimulate blood lactate production, reducing the risk of symptoms of depression. Methods: To accomplish this, we compared the depressive symptoms with the Beck Depression Inventory-II, the intensity of physical activity with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and blood samples of the D-lactate assay in two groups of participants who practiced and did not practice street running. Results: The results showed a negative correlation between blood lactate levels and the severity of symptoms of depression. In addition, running volunteers had significant blood lactate levels and low depression scores compared to non-running volunteers. Conclusion: This evidence suggests that street running may reduce symptoms of depression by stimulating blood lactate levels.