Exploring the Evolutionary Disparities: A Case Study on the Psychophysiological Response to Recreating the Hunter–Gatherer Lifestyle through Physical Activity and Caloric Restriction

Abstract

Physical activity has been instrumental in shaping the human body throughout evolution, but modern sedentary lifestyles and excessive caloric intake have contributed to chronic diseases. This study investigates the potential benefits of recreating the hunter–gatherer lifestyle, involving physical activity and caloric restriction on psychophysiological responses. The aim is to understand the evolutionary disparities between ancestral and modern lifestyles. Two male participants, one fasting and one control, were analyzed during a 4-day walking event without caloric consumption. Psychophysiological parameters such as body mass, cortical arousal, hand-grip strength, lower limb strength, heart rate variability, reaction time, hydration status, blood glucose and lactate levels, urine markers, sleep quality, pain perception, stress levels, and perceived exertion were measured. The fasting participant exhibited higher ratings of perceived exertion, stress, pain, and dehydration. They also experienced poorer sleep quality, higher Creatinkinase levels, greater protein presence in urine, decreased lower limb strength, significant weight loss, and increased lactate values. Heart rate variability did not differ significantly between the fasting and control participants. Recreating the hunter–gatherer lifestyle through physical activity and caloric restriction can have implications for enhancing performance and improving overall health. However, further research is needed to better understand the complex interplay of factors involved in the psychophysiological responses to such interventions.