Investigations on the constitutional types under consideration of anthropometric data, autonomic regulation and immunological parameters

摘要

ObjectivesOver time different systems were developed for the characterization of individuals according to their physical and psycho-vegetative traits which until today play a role in complementary medicine. This pilot study aimed at investigating if the concepts of polar constitutional types of anthroposophic medicine and according to Kretschmer can be further clarified using empirical method. Methods96 participants, preselected by two polar body mass index (BMI) ranges (17–19.5?kg/m2and 27–31?kg/m2), were categorized using both classification systems. Anthropometrical measurements were carried out and differences in the autonomic regulation were assessed using a questionnaire. From 12 participants showing a pronounced polar constitutional type, production of reactive oxygen species, proliferation, autophagy, and glucose uptake by lymphocytes, monocytes and granulocytes were measuredin vitro. ResultsCorrelations between the BMI and the strength of constitutional classification were found for both classification systems. Additionally, a strong correlation between the two systems themselves could be seen. Analysis of the overall questionnaire score of autonomic regulation did not yield significant correlations. However, using a modified 11 item score, reliability (Cronbach α?=?0.656) and a differentiation of polar constitutional types was demonstrated (p?