Insulin, Leptin and Ghrelin are Correlated with Sex but Not with Age in Healthy Subjects: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Over the past ten years, there has been a significant global increase in the prevalence of obesity. Obesity can lead to several complications, such as metabolic problems, hormonal imbalances, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this study was to assess the connection between hormones, health biomarkers, waist circumference, and body weight. One hundred male and female participants in a cross-sectional study were included. Measurements of height, weight, and waist circumference were taken. A bioelectrical impedance analyzer was used to determine the percentage of total body fat. Measurements of % HbA1c, total cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), insulin, fasting blood glucose (FBG), ghrelin, and leptin were made using venous blood samples. Additionally, blood pressure was measured. Of the individuals, 27% were fat and 40% were overweight. About 57% of the participants had high body fat percentages, and 50% of them had high waist circumferences. Males had a greater waist circumference (P<0.05). In comparison to females, males showed significantly greater levels of TG, % HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, and lower levels of HDL. Leptin levels were considerably (P0.05) higher and ghrelin levels were lower in females. In elderly participants, both diastolic and systolic blood pressure increased significantly (P<0.05). Of the participants in our study, 67% were overweight or obese. In summary, men were more likely to have diabetes, abdominal obesity, and dyslipidemia, which increases the risk of cardiovascular illnesses. Finally, females exhibited higher levels of hormones that regulate appetite than males did, and age was linked to higher blood pressure.