Plasma level of catecholamines and lipids when speaking before an audience

Adrenaline and noradrenaline as well as total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides were determined in 10 male subjects on the day of a public speech as well as on a control day. In the course of the public speech, a major rise of adrenaline and noradrenaline, by the factors of 2.7 and 1.9 respectively, was found. Furthermore, in comparison to the values of the control day, there was a rise in total cholesterol by 14.0 mg/dl as well as in LDL and HDL cholesterol. The triglycerides did not alter appreciably. The results are compatible with the hypothesis of a raised lipid level after acute emotional stress. The lipid mobilizing effect of catecholamines is discussed as a possible cause.