The studya meta-analysis examined, specifically, the effects of an exercise program on alcohol dependence and the physical and mental states of these patients with alcohol use disorders. The team reviewed all published studies on the topic through June 30, 2024. All forms of exercise intervention (aerobics, resistance, yoga, mixed exercise, etc.) were included. The methodologies of the selected studies were validated according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews and Interventions. Alcohol dependence was characterized by number of drinks per day per week, physical and mental symptoms, peak oxygen consumption (VO2 max), resting heart rate, anxiety and stress levels, and symptoms depressed.
A total of 17 randomized controlled trials were selected for analysis, involving a total of 1,905 participants with alcohol use disorders. The analysis confirms that:
- the practice of exercise does have a significant effect on alcohol dependence, with, in practice, a significant reduction in the number of drinks consumed;
- exercise also has a significant beneficial effect on physical and mental state, VO2 max, resting heart rate, anxiety state, depressive state and stress level.
It is therefore a dual effect of exercise on alcohol dependence which is confirmed, with, as a result, an improvement described as “considerable” in the physical and mental state of the participants who observed these interventions.
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