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Aim: To compare the efficacy of two popular weight loss approaches on weight loss, body composition, and markers of health in sedentary obese women. Methods: In total, 51 sedentary women (age 34.5 ± 7.7 yrs.; weight 90.0 ± 14.5 kg; BMI 34.0 ± 5.1 kg/m2; 46.5 ± 7.0% fat) were matched and randomized to participate in the Weight Watchers® Momentum™ (WW) or Curves® (CV) Fitness and Weight Management program for 16 weeks. Participants in the WW group (n = 27) were provided a point-based diet program, received weekly progress checks and counseling, and were encouraged to exercise. Participants in the CV group (n = 24) followed a menu-based higher protein/low-fat diet (1200 kcal/d) for 1 week; 1500 kcal/d diet for 3 weeks; and 2000–2500 kcals/d for 2 weeks that was repeated three times (except the last segment) while participating in a supervised circuit-style resistance training program (3 d/wk). A general linear model (GLM) with repeated measures was used to analyze data and are presented as mean changes from baseline (mean [UL, LL]). Results: Supervised CV training resulted in greater amounts of vigorous and total physical activity. After 16 weeks, both groups lost weight (WW −6.1 [−7.8, −4.6], CV −4.9 [−6.2, −3.2] kg, p = 0.264). Participants in the CV group observed greater reductions in fat mass (WW −2.9 [−6.7, −0.2], CV −6.4 [−9.2, −3.6] kg, p = 0.081) and increases in lean mass (WW −2.5 [−4.3, −0.7], CV 1.3 [−0.6, 3.2] kg, p = 0.005) resulting in more favorable changes in percent body fat (WW −1.4 [−4.1, 1.2], CV −4.7 [−7.5, −1.8]%, p = 0.098). Both groups observed improvements in peak aerobic capacity and muscular endurance, although bench press lifting volume was greater in the CV group. Those in the CV group experienced a greater increase in HDLc and reduction in the CHL–HDLc ratio and triglycerides. Conclusion: Both interventions promoted weight loss and improvements in fitness and markers of health. The CV program, which included supervised resistance training and higher protein diet menus, promoted greater fat loss, increases in lean mass, and improvements in percent body fat and blood lipids. Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov, #NCT04372771, registered retrospectively 1 May 2020.

This study aimed to identify the acute effects of caffeinated chewing gum (CAF) on bicycle motocross (BMX) time-trial (TT) performance. In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind cross-over design, 14 male BMX riders (age = 20.0 ± 3.3 years; height = 1.78 ± 0.04 m; body mass = 72 ± 4 kg), consumed either (300 mg; 4.2 ± 0.2 mg/kg) caffeinated (300 mg caffeine, 6 g sugars) or a placebo (0 mg caffeine, 0 g sugars) gum, and undertook three BMX TTs. Repeated-measure analysis revealed that CAF has a large ergogenic effect on TT time, F(1, 14) = 33.570, p = .001, ; −1.5% ± 0.4 compared with the placebo. Peak power and maximal power to weight ratio also increased significantly compared with the placebo condition, F(1, 14) = 54.666, p = .001, ; +3.5% ± 0.6, and F(1, 14) = 57.399, p = .001, ; +3% ± 0.3, respectively. Rating of perceived exertion was significantly lower F(1, 14) = 25.020, p = .001, in CAF (6.6 ± 1.3) compared with the placebo (7.2 ± 1.7). Administering a moderate dose (300 mg) of CAF could improve TT time by enhancing power and reducing the perception of exertion. BMX coaches and riders may consider consuming CAF before a BMX race to improve performance and reduce rating of perceived exertion.

Studies have shown that Nitrate (NO3-) rich beetroot juice (BJ) supplementation improves endurance and high-intensity intermittent exercise. The dose-response effect on taekwondo of BJ supplementation are yet to be determined. This study aimed to investigate two acute doses of 400 mg of NO3-(BJ-400) and (800 mg NO3- (BJ-800) on taekwondo-specific performance tests compared with a placebo (PL) and control (CON) conditions. Eight trained male taekwondo athletes (age: 20±4 years, height: 180±2 cm, weight: 64.8±4.0 kg) completed four experimental trials using a randomized, double‐blind placebo‐controlled design: BJ-400, BJ-800, PL, and CON. Countermovement jump (CMJ) was performed before the Multiple Frequency Speed of Kick Test (FSKT) and Progressive Specific Taekwondo Test (PSTT), respectively, whereas cognitive function was assessed (via the Stroop test) before and after supplementation and 10 minutes following PSTT. Blood lactate was collected before the CMJ tests, immediately, and 3 minutes after the FSKT and PSST, with rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was recorded during and after specific taekwondo tests. Nosignificant difference between conditions were observed (p> 0.05)for PSTT and FSKT performances. In addition, blood lactate, RPE, heart rate, and CMJ height and performance during the specific taekwondo tests were not significantly different among conditions (p> 0.05). However, after the PSTT test, cognitive function was higher in BJ-400 compared to other treatments (p< 0.05). In conclusion, acute intake of 400 and 800 mg of NO3-rich BJ did not improve taekwondo-specific performance tests in trained male taekwondo athletes.

Background The ergogenic properties of acute caffeine (CAF) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) ingestion on athletic performance have been previously investigated. However, each sport has unique physiological and technical characteristics which warrants optimizing supplementations strategies for maximizing performance. This study examined the effects of CAF and NaHCO3 ingestion on physiological responses and rate of perceived exertion during a Karate-specific aerobic test (KSAT) in competitive karatekas. Methods In a double-blind, crossover, randomized placebo-controlled trial, eight Karatekas underwent five experimental conditions including control (CON), placebo (PLA), CAF, NaHCO3, and CAF + NaHCO3 before completing KSAT. Capsules containing 6 mg/kg BW CAF were consumed 50 min prior to a KSAT whilst 0.3 g/kg BW NaHCO3 was consumed for 3 days leading to and 120, 90, and 60 min prior to a KSAT. Time to exhaustion (TTE), rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and blood lactate (BL) were measured before, immediately after and 3 min following KSAT. Results TTE was significantly greater following CAF, NaHCO3, and CAF + NaHCO3 consumption compared to PLA and CON. However, the differences between CAF, NaHCO3, and CAF + NaHCO3 were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). BL increased significantly from baseline to immediately after and 3 min following KSAT in all conditions (p

[Purpose] Studies of L-carnitine in healthy athletic populations have yielded equivocal results. Further scientific-based knowledge is needed to clarify the ability of L-carnitine to improve exercise capacity and expedite the recovery process by reducing oxidative stress. This study aimed to examine the 9-week effects of L-carnitine supplementation on exercise performance, anaerobic capacity, and exercise-induced oxidative stress markers in resistance-trained males. [Methods] In a double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled treatment, 23 men (age, 25±2y; weight, 81.2±8.31 kg; body fat, 17.1±5.9%) ingested either a placebo (2 g/d, n=11) or L-carnitine (2 g/d, n=12) for 9 weeks in conjunction with resistance training. Primary outcome measurements were analyzed at baseline and at weeks 3, 6, and 9. Participants underwent a similar resistance training (4 d/w, upper/lower body split) for a 9-week period. Two-way ANOVA with repeated measures was used for statistical analysis. [Results] There were significant increases in bench press lifting volume at wk-6 (146 kg, 95% CI 21.1, 272) and wk-9 (245 kg, 95% CI 127, 362) with L-carnitine. A similar trend was observed for leg press. In the L-carnitine group, at wk-9, there were significant increases in mean power (63.4 W, 95% CI 32.0, 94.8) and peak power (239 W, 95% CI 86.6, 392), reduction in post-exercise blood lactate levels (-1.60 mmol/L, 95% CI -2.44, -0.75) and beneficial changes in total antioxidant capacity (0.18 mmol/L, 95% CI 0.07, 0.28). [Conclusion] L-carnitine supplementation enhances exercise performance while attenuating blood lactate and oxidative stress responses to resistance training.

Background Carbohydrate (CHO) ingestion enhances exercise performance; however, the efficacy of CHO intake on repeated bouts of exercise simulating a taekwondo tournament is unknown. Therefore, the purpose was to compare the effects of two different doses of CHO on a sports-specific kicking test during a simulated taekwondo tournament compared to placebo (PLA). Methods In a double-blind, randomized-placebo controlled, cross-over trial, eleven junior male professional taekwondo athletes (age: 16 ± 0.8 years, body mass: 55.3 ± 7.3 kg) ingested one of three solutions: (i) high dose (C45): 45 g of CHO (60 g∙h− 1), (ii) low dose (C22.5): 22.5 g of CHO (30 g∙h− 1; both solutions containing 2:1 glucose:fructose), or a PLA immediately following each kicking test. The kicking test was repeated 5 times, separated by 45 mins of rest, simulating a typical taekwondo competition day. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and gastrointestinal discomfort (GI) scores were collected immediately after, and blood glucose before each test. Results The results revealed that C45 and C22.5 did not improve total, successful, or percentage of successful kicks compared to PLA (p > 0.05). Blood glucose was significantly higher following both CHO conditions compared with PLA across all five tests (p 0.05). Conclusion CHO intake, independent of the dose, did not alter taekwondo kick performance during a simulated taekwondo tournament.

Background Creatine (CR) and sodium bicarbonate (SB) alone improve anaerobic performance. However, the ergogenic effects of CR and SB co-ingestion on taekwondo anaerobic performance remains unknown. Methods Forty trained taekwondo athletes (21 ± 1 y.; 180.5 ± 7.3 cm; 72.7 ± 8.6 kg) were randomized to: (i) CR and SB (CR + SB; 20 g of CR+ 0.5 g·kg− 1·d− 1 of SB), (ii) CR, (iii) SB, (iv) placebo (PLA), or (v) control (CON) for 5 days. Before and after supplementation, participants completed 3 bouts of a Taekwondo Anaerobic Intermittent Kick Test (TAIKT) to determine changes in peak power (PP), mean power (MP), and fatigue index (FI). Blood lactate (BL) was measured before, immediately following, and 3 min post-TAIKT. Results PP and MP increased over time (P 0.05). BL increased following exercise across all groups; however, CR + SB and SB post-exercise BL was lower compared to CR, PLA, and CON (P

Studies have shown that nitrate (NO3−)-rich beetroot juice (BJ) supplementation improves endurance and high-intensity intermittent exercise. The dose–response effects on taekwondo following BJ supplementation are yet to be determined. This study aimed to investigate two acute doses of 400 mg of NO3− (BJ-400) and 800 mg of NO3− (BJ-800) on taekwondo-specific performance and cognitive function tests compared with a placebo (PL) and control (CON) conditions. Eight trained male taekwondo athletes (age: 20 ± 4 years, height: 180 ± 2 cm, body mass: 64.8 ± 4.0 kg) completed four experimental trials using a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled design: BJ-400, BJ-800, PL, and CON. Participants consumed two doses of BJ-400 and BJ-800 or nitrate-depleted PL at 2.5 h prior to performing the Multiple Frequency Speed of Kick Test (FSKT). Countermovement jump (CMJ) was performed before the (FSKT) and PSTT, whereas cognitive function was assessed (via the Stroop test) before and after supplementation and 10 min following PSTT. Blood lactate was collected before the CMJ tests immediately and 3 min after the FSKT and PSST, rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was recorded during and after both specific taekwondo tests. No significant differences (p &gt, 0.05), with moderate and large effect sizes, between conditions were observed for PSTT and FSKT performances. In addition, blood lactate, RPE, heart rate, and CMJ height were not significantly different among conditions (p &gt, 0.05). However, after the PSTT test, cognitive function was higher in BJ-400 compared to other treatments (p &lt, 0.05). It was concluded that acute intake of 400 and 800 mg of NO3− rich BJ reported a moderate to large effect size in anaerobic and aerobic, however, no statistical differences were found in taekwondo-specific performance.

Purpose: To determine whether adherence to a repeating 30-d non-linear diet intervention while participating in a supervised exercise program that includes resistance-exercise would promote weight and fat loss without weight loss plateau and whether alterations in carbohydrate and protein intake may influence results. Methods: Fifty sedentary and obese pre-menopausal females (35.2±7.6 years; 88.7±18 kg, 32.6±6 kg/m2, 42.5±4.2% fat) were randomly assigned to an exercise-only (EX) or EX plus diets containing higher proportions of carbohydrate or protein. Diets were hypoenergetic for 30-d (7-d at 1,200 kcals/d, 21-d at 1,500 kcal/d), more isoenergetic for 30-d (2,200 kcals/d), and repeated three times during a 24-wk intervention. Diets were either 45:30:24 (HCD) or 30:45:25 (HPD) carbohydate:protein:fat. All participants performed 30-min resistance exercise (3 d/wk) and a brisk walking program (3 d/wk). Data were analyzed by general linear model (GLM) statistics with repeated measures and presented as mean changes from baseline (mean [UL, LL]). Results: Participants experienced a significant and reduction in body weight (EX -2.24 [-6.5, 2.0], EX+HCD -6.99 [-9.4, -4.5], EX+HPD -4.49 [-7.1, -1.8] %), fat mass (EX -3.45 [-10.9, 4.03], EX+HCD -12.15 [-16.4, -7.9], EX+HPD -8.54 [-13.2, -3.9] %), and percent body fat (EX -1.30 [-5.6, 3.0], EX+HCD -5.91 [-8.3, -3.5], EX+HPD -4.31 [-7.0, -1.6] %) with those in the EX+HCD experiencing a more linear response. Participants in the EX and EX+HCD groups maintained fat-free mass to a better degree (EX -0.89 [-4.0, 2.2], EX+HCD -3.21 [-5.0, -1.2], EX+HPD -1.92 [-3.8, 0.002] %). Participants dieting generally experiencing greater benefit with some evidence that those in the EX+HPD experienced greater changes in blood lipids. Conclusion: A 30-day repeated non-linear diet can promote fat and weight loss without a plateau. Consuming a HPD may help maintain fat-free mass during weight loss and improve some markers of health compared to HCD interventions.

While commercial dietary weight-loss programs typically advise exercise, few provide actual programing. The goal of this study was to compare the Curves Complete 90-day Challenge (CC, n = 29), which incorporates exercising and diet, to programs advocating exercise (Weight Watchers Points Plus (WW, n = 29), Jenny Craig At Home (JC, n = 27), and Nutrisystem Advance Select (NS, n = 28)) or control (n = 20) on metabolic syndrome (MetS) and weight loss. We randomized 133 sedentary, overweight women (age, 47 ± 11 years; body mass, 86 ± 14 kg; body mass index, 35 ± 6 kg/m2) into respective treatment groups for 12 weeks. Data were analyzed using chi square and general linear models adjusted for age and respective baseline measures. Data are means ± SD or mean change ± 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We observed a significant trend for a reduction in energy intake for all treatment groups and significant weight loss for all groups except control: CC (−4.32 kg; 95% CI, −5.75, −2.88), WW (−4.31 kg; 95% CI, −5.82, −2.96), JC (−5.34 kg; 95% CI, −6.86, −3.90), NS (−5.03 kg; 95% CI, −6.49, −3.56), and control (0.16 kg, 95% CI, −1.56, 1.89). Reduced MetS prevalence was observed at follow-up for CC (35% vs. 14%, adjusted standardized residuals (adjres.) = 3.1), but not WW (31% vs. 28% adjres. = 0.5), JC (37% vs. 42%, adjres. = −0.7), NS (39% vs. 50% adjres. = −1.5), or control (45% vs. 55% adjres. = −1.7). While all groups improved relative fitness (mL·kg−1·min−1) because of weight loss, only the CC group improved absolute fitness (L/min). In conclusion, commercial programs offering concurrent diet and exercise programming appear to offer greater improvements in MetS prevalence and cardiovascular function after 12 weeks of intervention.

In a double-blind, crossover, randomized and placebo-controlled trial; 28 men and women ingested a placebo (PLA), 3 g of creatine nitrate (CNL), and 6 g of creatine nitrate (CNH) for 6 days. Participants repeated the experiment with the alternate supplements after a 7-day washout. Hemodynamic responses to a postural challenge, fasting blood samples, and bench press, leg press, and cycling time trial performance and recovery were assessed. Data were analyzed by univariate, multivariate, and repeated measures general linear models (GLM). No significant differences were found among treatments for hemodynamic responses, clinical blood markers or self-reported side effects. After 5 days of supplementation, one repetition maximum (1RM) bench press improved significantly for CNH (mean change, 95% CI; 6.1 [3.5, 8.7] kg) but not PLA (0.7 [−1.6, 3.0] kg or CNL (2.0 [−0.9, 4.9] kg, CNH, p = 0.01). CNH participants also tended to experience an attenuated loss in 1RM strength during the recovery performance tests following supplementation on day 5 (PLA: −9.3 [−13.5, −5.0], CNL: −9.3 [−13.5, −5.1], CNH: −3.9 [−6.6, −1.2] kg, p = 0.07). After 5 days, pre-supplementation 1RM leg press values increased significantly, only with CNH (24.7 [8.8, 40.6] kg, but not PLA (13.9 [−15.7, 43.5] or CNL (14.6 [−0.5, 29.7]). Further, post-supplementation 1RM leg press recovery did not decrease significantly for CNH (−13.3 [−31.9, 5.3], but did for PLA (−30.5 [−53.4, −7.7] and CNL (−29.0 [−49.5, −8.4]). CNL treatment promoted an increase in bench press repetitions at 70% of 1RM during recovery on day 5 (PLA: 0.4 [−0.8, 1.6], CNL: 0.9 [0.35, 1.5], CNH: 0.5 [−0.2, 0.3], p = 0.56), greater leg press endurance prior to supplementation on day 5 (PLA: −0.2 [−1.6, 1.2], CNL: 0.9 [0.2, 1.6], CNH: 0.2 [−0.5, 0.9], p = 0.25) and greater leg press endurance during recovery on day 5 (PLA: −0.03 [−1.2, 1.1], CNL: 1.1 [0.3, 1.9], CNH: 0.4 [−0.4, 1.2], p = 0.23). Cycling time trial performance (4 km) was not affected. Results indicate that creatine nitrate supplementation, up to a 6 g dose, for 6 days, appears to be safe and provide some ergogenic benefit.

The purpose of this study was to examine whether ingesting a pre-workout dietary supplement (PWS) with and without synephrine (S) during training affects training responses in resistance-trained males. Resistance-trained males (N = 80) were randomly assigned to supplement their diet in a double-blind manner with either a flavored placebo (PLA); a PWS containing beta-alanine (3 g), creatine nitrate as a salt (2 g), arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (2 g), N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (300 mg), caffeine (284 mg), Mucuna pruiriens extract standardized for 15% L-Dopa (15 mg), Vitamin C as Ascorbic Acid (500 mg), niacin (60 mg), folate as folic acid (50 mg), and Vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin (70 mg); or, the PWS supplement with Citrus aurantium extract containing 20 mg of synephrine (PWS + S) once per day for 8-weeks during training. Participants donated a fasting blood sample and had body composition (DXA), resting heart rate and blood pressure, cognitive function (Stroop Test), readiness to perform, bench and leg press 1 RM, and Wingate anaerobic capacity assessments determined a 0, 4, and 8-weeks of standardized training. Data were analyzed by MANOVA with repeated measures. Performance and cognitive function data were analyzed using baseline values as covariates as well as mean changes from baseline with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Blood chemistry data were also analyzed using Chi-square analysis. Although significant time effects were seen, no statistically significant overall MANOVA Wilks’ Lambda interactions were observed among groups for body composition, resting heart and blood pressure, readiness to perform questions, 1RM strength, anaerobic sprint capacity, or blood chemistry panels. MANOVA univariate analysis and analysis of changes from baseline with 95% CI revealed some evidence that cognitive function and 1RM strength were increased to a greater degree in the PWS and/or PWS + S groups after 4- and/or 8-weeks compared to PLA responses. However, there was no evidence that PWS + S promoted greater overall training adaptations compared to the PWS group. Dietary supplementation of PWS and PWS + S did not increase the incidence of reported side effects or significantly affect the number of blood values above clinical norms compared to PLA. Results provide some evidence that 4-weeks of PWS and/or PWS + S supplementation can improve some indices of cognitive function and exercise performance during resistance-training without significant side effects in apparently health males. However, these effects were similar to PLA responses after 8-weeks of supplementation and inclusion of synephrine did not promote additive benefits. This trial ( NCT02999581 ) was retrospectively registered on December 16th 2016.

Methods Fifty sedentary, obese women (41.6 ± 12 yrs, 35.4 ± 8 kg/ m) were assigned to diet groups based on five obesityrelated genetic variants from four genes prominently associated with obesity (FABP2, PPARG, ADRB2, ADRB3). Participants were either truly matched (T) to their diet group based on genotype (n = 28) or falsely matched (F) based on genotype (n = 22). Prescribed diets consisted of 1,500 kcal/d and included carbohydrate:fat: protein percentages of 30:25:45 (H) or 20:35:45 (L). Participants performed a supervised circuit-style resistanceexercise program four days/week and a walking program consisting of 10,000 steps/day, three days/week. Body weight and duel energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) body composition measures were obtained at baseline, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 weeks. Data were analyzed by MANOVA, with baseline body weight and body composition values used as covariates to normalize baseline differences between groups. Data are presented as changes from baseline at each time point, respectively. Results MANOVA revealed an overall Wilks’ Lamda time effect (p < 0.001) with no significant time by diet (p = 0.51), time × gene type (0.84), or time × diet × gene type (0.81) effects observed. Univariate analysis revealed that the exercise and diet interventions promoted significant reductions in weight (-5.36 ± 5.0 kg, p < 0.001), fat mass (-4.53 ± 3.6 kg, p < 0.001), and body fat (-2.88 ± 2.7 %, p < 0.001) with a trend toward a reduction in fat free mass (-0.65 ± 2.3 kg, p < 0.071). When baseline body weight and DXA body composition variables were used as covariates, Wilks’ Lambda time × diet (p = 0.098) tended to differ, a time × gene type interaction was observed (p = 0.011), while no differences were seen in time × diet × gene type (p = 0.18). Univariate analyses revealed some trends in time × diet changes in weight (H -2.03 ± 1.7, -3.13 ± 2.6, -4.17 ± 3.3, -4.62 ± 4.0, -4.75 ± 4.6, -4.41 ± 5.1; L -2.47 ± 1.8, -3.66 ± 2.4, -4.56 ± 3.1, -5.49 ± 3.9, -5.89 ± 4.5, -6.17 ± 4.8 kg, pq = 0.02), fat mass (H -1.53 ± 1.4, -2.67 ± 2.3, -3.63 ± 2.5, -3.73 ± 2.8, -4.14 ± 3.6, -3.95 ± 3.6; L -1.31 ± 1.6, -2.66 ± 2.2, -3.22 ± 2.5, -4.32 ± 2.9, -4.60 ± 3.0, -5.03 ± 3.7 kg, pq = 0.10), FFM (H -0.49 ± 1.2, -0.58 ± 1.5, -0.52 ± 1.8, -0.68 ± 2.4, -0.51 ± 2.2, -0.31 ± 2.3; L -0.95 ± 1.5, -0.73 ± 1.9, -1.20 ± 1.9, -0.86 ± 2.0, -1.03 ± 2.6, -0.94 ± 2.4 kg, p = 0.14), or body fat (H -0.50 ± 1.9, -1.51 ± 1.8, -2.32 ± 2.2, -2.22 ± 2.0, -2.68 ± 2.5, -2.65 ± 2.3; L -0.46 ± 1.5, -1.55 ± 2.1, -1.67 ± 2.4, -2.56 ± 2.5, -2.78 ± 2.7, -3.08 ± 3.0 %, pq = 0.13) generally in favor of the more carbohydrate restricted diet. Some trends were also seen in time × gene type changes in weight (T -2.06 ± 1.8, -2.91 ± 2.6, -3.99 ± 3.3, -4.83 ± 4.0, -5.07 ± 4.6, -5.15 ± 5.1; F -2.54 ± 1.7, -4.05 ± 2.2, -4.88 ± 2.9, -5.43 ± 3.8, -5.73 ± 4.6, -5.62 ± 5.0 kg, p = 0.20), Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA Full list of author information is available at the end of the article Coletta et al. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 2015, 12(Suppl 1):P16 http://www.jissn.com/content/12/S1/P16

Purpose: To study the effect of arginine (AR) supplementation during a seven-day training period on selected hormones in endurance swimmers. Methods: 20 male swimmers (age=30±5yr) were assigned into either AR (n=10) or placebo (PL) (n=10) groups. Pre- and post-training continuous 1500-meter swimming tests were performed. Fasting blood samples were obtained at rest, 0, 5, 30, and 60-min during recovery. Results: Insulin levels were lower in the AR compared to the PL group at 0-min [A: 11.86±2.8; P: 18.66±8.3 ng/ml, P=0.033]; however, it increased at 5-min recovery point [A: 24.9±7.01; P: 8.97±5.4 ng/ml, P=0.000]. The testosterone levels were higher in the AR compared to the PL group at 30-min [A: 6.03±1.7; P: 3.91±0.7 ng/ml, P=0.003] and 60-min recovery points [A: 5.57±1.9; P: 3.61±0.97 ng/ml, P=0.013]. The cortisol levels were lower in the AR compared to the PL group at 5-min [A: 156±9.3; P: 198.4±41.8 ng/ml, P=0.005] and 30-min recovery points [A: 147.11±34; P: 188.25±45 ng/ml, P=0.027]. Despite some tre...

Diagnosing insulin resistance via an OGTT can be costly and impractical. However, this information can be useful in recommending proper diet for individuals interested in losing weight. This study ...

Our aim was to examine the acute (5 h) hemodynamic (HR & BP) and hematologic profiles for a (1) Placebo (PL), (2) Creatine (CR, 5 g), (3) Creatine Nitrate (CrN; 1 g CR; 0.5 N) and (4) CrN2X (2 g CR; 1.0 g N) formula administered in a randomized, double-blind manner with 7d of washout between treatments. Participants (N=13; 22 ± 2 y) presented for testing after abstaining from exercise and fasting for 8 h. Initial unsupplemented measures (Time 0) were assessed, followed by supplement ingestion and serial sampling (0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5h). Variables included heart rate, blood pressure, liver (ALP, AST, ALT), kidney (creatinine, BUN), and muscle (CK, LDH) enzymes, glucose and blood lipids. Analyses included GLM and LSD post-hoc procedures. Significant within group perturbations were noted for LDL-C (CR, PL), HDL-C (CrN, CrN2X), triglycerides (CrN2X, PL), glucose (CrN2X), creatinine (all), CK (CrN2X, PL), BUN (all), ALT (PL) over the 5h study period (all, P < 0.03). Corresponding between group differences (all, ...

Pre-workout supplements can increase energy availability and/or exercise capacity. We examined the effects of ingesting a pre-workout supplement with and without synephrine for 8w in 78 healthy, re...

We examined 28d of randomly assigned of (1) Placebo (PL), (2) Creatine (CR, 3 g), (3) Creatine Nitrate (CrN; 1 g CR; 0.5 N) and (4) CrN2X (2 g CR; 1.0 g N) on exercise performance and body composition. Participants (N=48; 21 ±3 y) presented for fasting (12h) testing after abstaining from exercise and alcohol for 48h. Performance (reps at 70% of bench press 1 RM [BP] and repeated sprints on cycle ergometer) was measured at 0 & 4 wks. Body composition (DXA) was measured at 0, 1, & 4 wks. We used GLM to examine mean change (95% CI) from baseline. While all three treatment groups significantly increased BP repetition at 4 wks, total BP lifting volume was greater at 4 wks for CrN2X (294.6 lbs; 95% CI, 196, 393) vs CrN (164.2 lbs; 95% CI, 25, 304) and PL (187.1 lbs;95% CI, 37, 336, both p=0.02). No treatment effects were observed for cycle ergometry testing (peak or mean power, fatigue slope, and total work). While no difference in fat mass were observed for any treatment group, CrN2X did augment lean mass (1.2...

Resistin and visfatin are secreted by adipose tissue and potential regulators of inflammation and insulin sensitivity. This study examined the effects of exercise and diet-induced weight loss on resistin, visfatin and other adiposity and inflammatory markers. 26 sedentary obese women were randomly assigned into a control (C) or an exercise (E) group that involved circuit resistance-exercise (4 d/wk) with walking (10,000 steps/d, 3 d/wk) while consuming 1,200 kcal/day for 1-wk and 1,500 kcal/d diet for 11 wks consisting of 45:30 % PRO:CHO. Baseline and post-training DEXA body composition and fasting blood samples were obtained and analyzed by MANOVA and Pearson correlation analysis. Data are presented as mean±SD changes from baseline. Participants in the E group lost more weight (E: -13.0±8.9; C: -1.4±3.1 lbs, p=0.001) and fat (E: -5.1±4.5; C:-0.4±1.5 kg, p=0.001). Significant differences were seen between groups in leptin (E: -19.8±21.9; C: 4.5±16 ng/ml, p=0.003) while visfatin (E: -0.09±15.4; C: 89.3±177...

This study examined whether genetic profile influences response to a diet and exercise intervention. 53 sedentary women (38±12 yrs, 80.8±13.9 kg) were randomized to a control group (C) or exercise + diet groups. Those in exercise groups performed circuit resistance-exercise (4 d/wk) and walked (10,000 steps, 3 d/wk). Diets were 1,500 kcal/d with 20:35:45 (CI), 30:25:45 (CII) or 55:30:15 (AHA) percentages of CHO:FAT: PRO. Buccal cheek swabs were obtained at baseline and analyzed for FABP2, PPARG, ADRB-79, ADRB3, and ADRB-46 genes to determine true (T) or false (F) genetic matches to higher CHO or CHO restricted diets. Body weight and DEXA body composition measurements were obtained at 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 wks. Data were analyzed by MANOVA and are presented as changes from baseline. An overall Wilk's Lambda time x diet (p=0.085) and time x diet x genotype (p=0.102) trend was observed. Univariate analysis revealed significant interaction trends in fat mass (C: 0.39±1.26; CI: T -6.16±5.04, F -1.58±2.22...

This study examined whether genotype of some obesity-related genes (FABP2, PPARG, ADRB2-79, ADRB2-46, ADRB3) influences success to different diets while participating in an exercise program. 40 sed...

Background Consumption of tart cherry juice has been reported to effectively reduce inflammation, muscle damage, and muscle soreness following bouts of exercise. The purpose of this study was to determine if consumption of a powdered form of tart cherries derived from tart cherry skins prior to and following intense endurance exercise promotes similar positive results as seen with tart cherry juice consumption.

The OGTT is a gold standard in assessing carbohydrate intolerance (CI) and insulin resistance. However, the test is costly and time consuming. This study examined whether a CI survey could predict response to an OGTT. 108 women (31.6±13 yr, 34.7±7% body fat, 25.3±4 kg/m2) donated fasting blood samples, completed a CI inventory, had body composition and health measures determined, and underwent a 75 g OGTT in which glucose samples and perceptions of CI symptoms were obtained at 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes. Pearson product correlations were performed to determine which factors correlated with OGTT glucose AUC. Results revealed significant correlations (p

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of responses to a carbohydrate intolerance (CI) questionnaire to body composition and markers of health. 108 women (31.6±13 yrs, 34.7±7% bo...

The OGTT is a gold standard in assessing carbohydrate intolerance (CI) and insulin resistance. However, the test is costly and time consuming. This study examined whether responses to a carbohydrat...

The fasting homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) is a gold standard in assessing insulin resistance. However, the test is costly and time consuming. This study examined whether responses to a carbohydrate intolerance survey (CI) correlate to HOMA, an OGTT, body composition and/or markers of health. 108 women (31.6±13 yrs, 34.7±7% body fat, 25.3±4 kg/m2) donated fasting blood samples, completed a CI inventory, had body composition and health measures determined, and underwent a 75g, 2-hr OGTT. Pearson product correlations were performed to determine which factors correlated with HOMA. Results revealed significant correlations (p

The purpose of this study was to determine if different types of exercise and diet interventions promote greater changes in visceral adipose tissue (VAT). 54 sedentary women (34±8 yrs, BMI 35±6) we...

The purpose of this study was to determine if different diet and exercise programs differentially affect android and/or gynoid body composition changes in sedentary women. 54 sedentary women (34±8 ...

The purpose of this study was to determine if different types of exercise and diet interventions promote greater changes in visceral adipose tissue (VAT). 127 sedentary women (46±12 yr, 45.5±5% body fat, 35.1±5 kg/m2) were randomized to participate in a control group (C) or the Curves Complete® program with online support (CC), Weight Watchers® Points Plus (WW), Jenny Craig® (JC), or Nutrisystem® Advance Select™ (NS) weight loss programs for 12-wks. DEXA body composition with VAT determination was obtained at 0 & 12 wks. MANOVA revealed significant (p=

Background Obesity is associated with many negative health outcomes. Diet and exercise has been shown to reduce obesity and various other factors linked to poor health. One of the major concerns is the expense of diet and exercise programs. This study compared the cost effectiveness of four popular weight loss programs and controls in terms of weight loss success and outcomes. Methods

Effects of immediate and delayed nutrient timing following resistance exercise on changes in mixed muscle fractional synthesis rate (FSR) in post-menopausal women participating in a weight loss program M Byrd, S Simbo, YP Jung, B Sanchez, M Cho, CW Lee, B Lockard, C Baetge, K Levers, E Galvan, A Jagim, JM Oliver, R Dalton, B Bessire, K Horrell, T Leopold, M Koozehchian, D Khanna, K Shimkus, W Gapinsky, M Perez, J Hart, S Riechman, J Fluckey, M Greenwood, C Rasmussen, R Kreider

Adolescence is a critical period in the formation of cardiovascular risk factors. Long-term exercise training has been found to be reversely related to risk factors levels in adolescents. PURPOSE: To determine the effects of training (swimming and soccer) over a twelve week timeframe on some cardiovascular risk and anti-risk factors in adolescent boys. METHODS: Forty two boys, including swimmers (SW n=14), soccer players (SO n=13), and a control group (C n=15) (Age=11.8±1.38yrs; Ht=149±.8.38cm; Wt=40±7.8kg) volunteered for this study. Fasting blood samples were obtained prior to initiation of training, at weeks 4, 8, and 12. A 3×4 repeated measures ANOVA with LSD post hoc analysis was conducted to determine the difference between three groups in ApoA1, ApoB, Apo A1/ApoB, Apo B/Apo A1, and VLDL. RESULTS: Participants in training groups had greater changes in ApoA1 (p=0.01), ApoB (p=0.000), ApoA1/ApoB ratio (p=0.000), and ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (p=0.000). Significant changes were not observed in VLDL levels (p=0.65) across all three groups. CONCLUSION: Exercise training had a significant effect to change ApoA1, ApoB, ApoA1/ApoB, and ApoB/ApoA1 levels in adolescent athletes. Participation in regular training is recommended for adolescents to improve cardiovascular risk and anti-risk factor profiles. Significant effects of training on VLDL levels were inconclusive for 12-week training period.