Effects of Nature and Forest Therapy in Patients With Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Effects of Nature and Forest Therapy in Patients With Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Risk Factors - a Randomized Controlled Trial

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of regular forest therapy under guidance of a licensed nature therapist on patients with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risks

It is assumed that nature and forest experience has sustainable benefits for the physical and mental health of individuals with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk profile. Especially co-therapeutic effects in terms of resilience and salutogenesis might effectively and sustainably promoted by nature and forest therapy.

The main objective of this study is to measure the effects of nature and forest therapy in subjects with manifest metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors. The intervention is a stay in the nature of the Düppeler Forest (Berlin-Wannsee) under the guidance of trained nature guides (90 minutes, 1x/week over 2 months), who teach exercises on the perception of nature and the connection between nature and health, movement and mindfulness. Subjects are also motivated to experience forest nature as regularly as possible (recommended ≥ 30 minutes daily). Participants of the control group will be offered a later participation in the therapy program after completion of the last study visit after 4 months (waiting list control group).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Definition of Metabolic Syndrome according to the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF):
• waist circumference: at least 94 cm for men, at least 80 cm for women
• plus at least two of the following risk factors:
• fasting blood glucose levels of > 100 mg/dl (> 5.6 mmol/l) measured in blood plasma or diagnosed diabetes mellitus
• elevated triglycerides > 150 mg/dl (> 1.7 mmol/l) or therapy already initiated to lower triglycerides
• low HDL cholesterol: < 40 mg/dl (< 1.05 mmol/l) in men and < 50 mg/dl (< 1.25 mmol/l) in women or already initiated therapy to increase HDL
• Hypertension (from > 130 mmHg systolic and > 85 mmHg diastolic) or already treated hypertension

Exclusion Criteria:

• Serious acute or chronic illnesses
• Immobility or limitation of mobility due to orthopedic, neurological or other medical cause
• Participation in another study
• Serious mental illness
• Pregnancy and lactation