Trace elements and electrolytes in human resting mixed saliva after exercise

Objectives-Exercise is known to cause changes in the concentration of saliv ary components such as amylase, Na, and Cl. The aim of this investigation w as to evaluate the effect of physical exercise on the levels of trace eleme nts and electrolytes in whole (mixed) saliva. Methods-Forty subjects performed a maximal exercise test on a cycle ergomet er. Samples of saliva were obtained before and immediately after the exerci se test. Sample concentrations of Fe, Mg, Sc, Cr, Mn, Co, Cu, Zn, Se, Sr, A g, Sb, Cs, and Hg were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectr ometry and concentrations of Ca and Na by atomic absorption spectrometry. Results-After exercise, lg and Na levels showed a significant increase (p<0 .05) while Mn levels fell (p<0.05). Zn/Cu molar ratios were unaffected by e xercise. Conclusions-Intense physical exercise induced changes in the concentrations of only three (Na, Mg, and, Mn) of the 16 elements analysed in the saliva samples. Further research is needed to assess the clinical implications of these findings.