The Optimal Exercise Modality and Dose for Cortisol Reduction in Psychological Distress: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis.

ABSTRACT: Objectives: Psychological distress has been linked to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and altered cortisol secretion. Exercise is increasingly recognized as a non-pharmacologic strategy for stress regulation. This systematic review and network meta-analysis assessed the relative efficacy of different exercise modalities and the optimal dose in modulating cortisol levels in adults with psychological distress. Methods: We systematically searched five databases up to 30 June 2025 for relevant randomized controlled trials. Two reviewers independently conducted study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessments. Pairwise meta-analyses and a frequentist network meta-analysis were performed with random-effects models. Standardized mean diff

SUBMITTER: Li X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12736704 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature