Influence of food intake on the QT and QT/RR relation

J Electrocardiol. 2016 Sep-Oct;49(5):720-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2016.06.009. Epub 2016 Jun 29.

Abstract

Background: There are conflicting data on the influence of meal intake on the QT interval.

Methods: Ten healthy subjects were studied before and after a standardized breakfast and lunch with a sequence of supine resting, standing and exercise. Data collection was performed using a 12-lead Holter with semi-automated analysis. QT correction was performed using Fridericia (QTcF) correction formula and a subject-specific method based on individual QT/RR-regression (QTcI).

Results: Meal intake induced significant changes in HR (p<0.001), but not in QTcF (p=0.512) or QTcI (p=0.739). Postural analysis showed only significant differences in supine position for HR (p=0.010), not when standing or during exercise.

Conclusion: Food intake induced an increase in heart rate limited to supine position. Using QTcF and QTcI no QTc changes were found.

Keywords: Heart rate; Meal intake; QT correction; QT interval; Thorough QT studies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Eating / physiology*
  • Electrocardiography, Ambulatory / standards*
  • Female
  • Heart Conduction System / physiology*
  • Heart Rate / physiology*
  • Heart Rate Determination / standards*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Postprandial Period / physiology
  • Reference Values
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Supine Position / physiology