A Cross-Sectional Study to Assess Autonomic Functions in Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Young Males Aged 18–25 Years

Abstract

Diet plays an important role in human health and physiological regulation. Among various factors, diet patterns like vegetarian and non-vegetarian intake can possibly affect autonomic nervous system (ANS). This study aimed to compare autonomic function between vegetarian and non-vegetarian young males aged 18-25 years.

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 healthy male volunteers (30 vegetarians and 30 non-vegetarians), aged 18-25 years. Subjects were selected from college students after taking proper informed consent. Autonomic functions were assessed using standard non-invasive cardiovascular reflex tests including resting heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), heart rate variability (HRV), deep breathing test (DBT), Valsalva maneuver (VM), and lying to standing test (LST).

Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Mean values were compared between groups using independent t-test and significance was set at p<0.05.

Results showed that vegetarians had slightly lower resting HR and BP compared to non-vegetarians, though not statistically significant. Parasympathetic reactivity measured by DBT and HRV was significantly higher in vegetarians (p<0.05), indicating better vagal tone. Sympathetic function measured by LST and Valsalva ratio were also marginally better in vegetarians.

These findings suggests that vegetarian diet may be associated with better autonomic balance, specially higher parasympathetic activity. This could be because of lower fat intake, higher antioxidant levels and better metabolic profile among vegetarians. However, more studies with large sample size and biochemical profiling are needed to confirm the findings. Overall, lifestyle and diet together affect autonomic regulation and should be considered in health promotion strategies.

Keywords: Vegetarian, Non-vegetarian, Autonomic Function, Blood Pressure