ISSN exercise & sports nutrition review update: research & recommendations

Effects of Beta-Alanine Supplementation on Physical Performance in Aerobic-Anaerobic Transition Zones: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Beta-alanine supplementation (BA) has a positive impact on physical performance. However, evidence showing a benefit of this amino acid in aerobic-anaerobic transition zones is scarce and the results controversial. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to analyze the effects of BA supplementation on physical performance in aerobic-anaerobic transition zones. At the same time, the effect of different dosages and durations of BA supplementation were identified. The search was designed in accordance with the PRISMA^® guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses and performed in Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, SPORTDiscus, PubMed, and MEDLINE between 2010 and 2020. The methodological quality and risk of bias were evaluated with the Cochrane Collaboration tool. The main variables were the Time Trial Test (TTT) and Time to Exhaustion (TTE) tests, the latter separated into the Limited Time Test (LTT) and Limited Distance Test (LDT). The analysis was carried out with a pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) through Hedges' g test (95% CI). Nineteen studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, revealing a small effect for time in the TTT (SMD, -0.36; 95% CI, -0.87-0.16; I² = 59%; p = 0.010), a small effect for LTT (SMD, 0.25; 95% CI, -0.01-0.51; I² = 0%; p = 0.53), and a large effect for LDT (SMD, 4.27; 95% CI, -0.25-8.79; I² = 94%; p = 0.00001). BA supplementation showed small effects on physical performance in aerobic-anaerobic transition zones. Evidence on acute supplementation is scarce (one study); therefore, exploration of acute supplementation with different dosages and formats on physical performance in aerobic-anaerobic transition zones is needed.

Physiological Responses and Nutritional Intake during a 7-Day Treadmill Running World Record

Ultra-running comprises running events longer than a marathon (>42.2 km). The prolonged duration of ultra-running leads to decrements in most or all physiological parameters and considerable energy expenditure (EE) and energy deficits. SG, 47 years, 162.5 cm, 49 kg, VO_2max 4 mL/kg/min⁻¹/2.37 L/min⁻¹, ran continuously for 7 days on a treadmill in 3 h blocks followed by 30 min breaks and slept from 1–5 a.m. Heart rate (HR) oxygen uptake (VO₂), rating of perceived exertion, weight, blood lactate (mmol·L⁻¹), haemoglobin (g·dL), haematocrit (%) and glucose (mmol·L⁻¹), and nutrition and hydration were recorded. SG ran for 17.5 h/day, covering ~120 km/day at ~7 km/h. Energy expenditure for each 24 h period was 6878 kcal/day and energy intake (EI) was 2701 kcal/day. EE was 382 kcal/h, with 66.6% from fat and 33.4% from carbohydrate oxidation. 7 day EI was 26,989 kcal and EE was 48,147 kcal, with a total energy deficit (ED) of 21,158 kcal. Average VO₂ was 1.2 L·min⁻¹/24.7 mL·kg·min⁻¹, Respriatory echange ratio (RER) 0.80 ± 0.03, HR 120–125 b·min⁻¹. Weight increased from 48.6 to 49.5 kg. Haemoglobin decreased from 13.7 to 11 g·dL and haematocrit decreased from 40% to 33%. SG ran 833.05 km. SG exhibits an enhanced fat metabolism through which she had a large daily ED. Her success can be attributed to a combination of physiological and psychological factors.

Rehabilitation Nutrition for Injury Recovery of Athletes: The Role of Macronutrient Intake

An adequate and balanced diet is of utmost importance in recovery and rehabilitation. "Rehabilitation nutrition" for injury recovery of athletes is similar to sports nutrition, except for the differences that concern the prevention of the risk or presence of sarcopenia, malnutrition, or dysphagia. Rehabilitation nutrition also aims, combined with training, to an adequate long-term nutritional status of the athlete and also in physical condition improvement, in terms of endurance and resistance. The aim of this paper is to define the proper nutrition for athletes in order to hasten their return to the sports after surgery or injury. Energy intake should be higher than the energy target in order to fight sarcopenia-that is 25-30 kcal/kg of body weight. Macro- and micro-nutrients play an important role in metabolism, energy production, hemoglobin synthesis, lean mass and bone mass maintenance, immunity, health, and protection against oxidative damage. Nutritional strategies, such as supplementation of suboptimal protein intake with leucine are feasible and effective in offsetting anabolic resistance. Thus, maintaining muscle mass, without gaining fat, becomes challenging for the injured athlete. A dietary strategy should be tailored to the athlete's needs, considering amounts, frequency, type and, most of all, protein quality. During rehabilitation, simultaneous carbohydrates and protein intake can inhibit muscle breakdown and muscle atrophy. The long-term intake of omega-3 fatty acids enhances anabolic sensitivity to amino acids; thus, it may be beneficial to the injured athlete. Adequate intakes of macronutrients can play a major role supporting athletes' anabolism.

Development of a Sport Food Exchange List for Dietetic Practice in Sport Nutrition

Food exchange lists have been widely used in dietary practice in health and disease situations, but there are still no exchange lists for sports foods. The aim of this study was to apply a previous published methodology to design food exchange lists to the development of a sports food exchange list, with sport products available in Spain. A cross-sectional study of the nutritional composition of sports foods, regarding macronutrients and energy, was carried out. A total of 322 sports foods from 18 companies were selected, taking into account their interest in sports practice and with nutritional data provided by companies. Sports foods were divided into seven groups: sports drinks; sports gels; sports bars; sports confectionery; protein powders; protein bars; and liquid meals. A sports food composition database based on portion size usually consumed by athletes and/or recommended in commercial packaging was created. Within each sports foods group, different subgroups were defined due to differences in the main and/or secondary macronutrient. The definition of each exchange list with the amounts—in grams—of each sports food within each group and subgroup, was done using statistical criteria such as mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and Z value. Final exchange values for energy and macronutrient have been established for each group and subgroup using a methodology to design food exchange lists previously published by the authors. In addition, those products with high Z values that can provide greater variability in dietary planning were included. The usefulness of sport foods lists as well as the use of an exchange system in the dietary practice of sports nutrition is discussed, and examples of how to use them with athletes are presented. This first sport foods exchange list showed in this study, with commercial sports products available in Spain, can be a novel tool for dietetic practice and also can allow sport nutrition professionals to develop another sport food list using the methodology described in this paper. Its management would allow dietitians to adapt dietary plans more precisely to the training and/or competition of the athlete.

Effect of post-exercise lactate administration on glycogen repletion and signaling activation in different types of mouse skeletal muscle

Lactate is not merely a metabolic intermediate that serves as an oxidizable and glyconeogenic substrate, but it is also a potential signaling molecule. The objectives of this study were to investigate whether lactate administration enhances post-exercise glycogen repletion in association with cellular signaling activation in different types of skeletal muscle. Eight-week-old male ICR mice performed treadmill running (20 m/min for 60 min) following overnight fasting (16 h). Immediately after the exercise, animals received an intraperitoneal injection of phosphate-buffered saline or sodium lactate (equivalent to 1 g/kg body weight), followed by oral ingestion of water or glucose (2 g/kg body weight). At 60 min of recovery, glucose ingestion enhanced glycogen content in the soleus, plantaris, and gastrocnemius muscles. In addition, lactate injection additively increased glycogen content in the plantaris and gastrocnemius muscles, but not in the soleus muscle. Nevertheless, lactate administration did not significantly alter protein levels related to glucose uptake and oxidation in the plantaris muscle, but enhanced phosphorylation of TBC1D1, a distal protein regulating GLUT4 translocation, was observed in the soleus muscle. Muscle FBP2 protein content was significantly higher in the plantaris and gastrocnemius muscles than in the soleus muscle, whereas MCT1 protein content was significantly higher in the soleus muscle than in the plantaris and gastrocnemius muscles. The current findings suggest that an elevated blood lactate concentration and post-exercise glucose ingestion additively enhance glycogen recovery in glycolytic phenotype muscles. This appears to be associated with glyconeogenic protein content, but not with enhanced glucose uptake, attenuated glucose oxidation, or lactate transport protein.

Dietary Acid-Base Balance in High-Performance Athletes

Physical exercise leads to metabolic changes that affect the acid-base balance in skeletal muscles and other tissues. Nutrition is one of the factors that may influence the acid-base balance in the body. Keeping alkaline circumstances in the body is important not only for health and athletic performance in training but also during competition in many sport events. This is especially significant for athletes who practice in sport at the highest level of competition. The aim of the study was to determine the dietary acid-base balance in competitive Lithuanian high-performance athletes, and to evaluate the effect of actual diets of athletes on NEAP (net endogenous acid production), muscle mass and body mineral content during a four-year Olympic cycle. The research participants were 18.1 ± 3.3-year-old Lithuanian high performance athletes (n = 323). The actual diet was investigated using the 24 h recall dietary survey method. The measurements of body composition were performed using BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis). The potential renal acid load of the diets of athletes (dietary PRAL) and NEAP were calculated. In 10.2% of athletes, NEAP exceeds 100 mEq · day-1 and is on average 126.1 ± 32.7 mEq · day-1. Higher NEAP in athletes is associated with lower muscle mass (β -1.2% of body weight, p < 0.001) but has no effect on the amount of minerals in the body (β 0.01% of body weight, p = 0.073). Overall, 25-30% of Lithuanian high-performance athletes use high-protein diets (2.0-4.8 g · kg-1 · day-1) leading to a dietary acid-base imbalance as well as an excessive production of endogenous acids in the body. Athletes are recommended to consume higher amounts of potassium and magnesium. An increase in calcium intake up to 1500 mg per day is recommended. In exceptional cases, periodised nutrition for athletes may involve diets complemented with bicarbonate and/or beta-alanine supplements.

Use of nutritional supplements by elite Japanese track and field athletes

BACKGROUND

While scientific evidence supports the efficacy of only limited nutritional supplements (NS) on sports performance, the use of NS is widespread in athletes. Given the serious issues of health damage or unintended Anti-Doping Rule Violations due to ingestion of contaminated NS in sports, accurately understanding NS practices by athletes is crucial. This study therefore elucidated the use of NS by elite Japanese track and field (TF) athletes.

METHODS

The subjects were 574 Japanese TF athletes, including 275 junior athletes (under 20 years) and 299 senior athletes, who participated in international competitions from 2013 to 2018. Data on NS use were collected through pre-participation medical forms obtained from all entrants before their participation in competitions. NS users were requested to report the product names and primary components of all NS they were taking.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of NS use was 63.9%. The mean number of NS products used per athlete was 1.4. The prevalence was significantly higher in women (69.2%) than in men (59.6%) (p = 0.018) and significantly higher in senior athletes (68.9%) than in junior athletes (58.9%) (p = 0.012). The prevalence of NS use was higher in long-distance runners (75.8%) and lower in jumpers (52.3%) and throwers (49.2%) than other disciplines (p < 0.001). The most prevalent components were amino acids (49.3%), followed by vitamins (48.3%), minerals (22.8%), and protein (17.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately two-thirds of elite Japanese TF athletes reported the use of NS, and NS practices varied by gender, age, and discipline.

Dietary Intake and Nitrogen Balance in British Army Infantry Recruits Undergoing Basic Training

We assessed dietary intake and nitrogen balance during 14 weeks of Basic Training (BT) in British Army Infantry recruits. Nineteen men (mean ± SD: age 19.9 ± 2.6 years, height: 175.7 ± 6.5 cm, body mass 80.3 ± 10.1 kg) at the Infantry Training Centre, Catterick (ITC(C)) volunteered. Nutrient intakes and 24-h urinary nitrogen balance were assessed in weeks 2, 6 and 11 of BT. Nutrient intake was assessed using researcher-led weighed food records and food diaries, and Nutritics professional dietary software. Data were compared between weeks using a repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) with statistical significance set at p ≤ 0.05. There was a significant difference in protein intake (g) between weeks 2 and 11 of BT (115 ± 18 vs. 91 ± 20 g, p = 0.02, ES = 1.26). There was no significant difference in mean absolute daily energy (p = 0.44), fat (p = 0.79) or carbohydrate (CHO) intake (p = 0.06) between weeks. Nitrogen balance was maintained in weeks 2, 6 and 11, but declined throughout BT (2: 4.6 ± 4.1 g, 6: 1.6 ± 4.5 g, 11: -0.2 ± 5.5 g, p = 0.07). A protein intake of 1.5 g·kg^-1·d^-1 may be sufficient in the early stages of BT, but higher intakes may be individually needed later on in BT.

Assessment of Dietary Intake and Nutritional Status in CrossFit-Trained Individuals: A Descriptive Study

CrossFit is a discipline with high training and nutritional requirements. To date, there is only scarce data evaluating nutrition among CrossFit training and they mostly focus on selected nutritional interventions. Therefore, the purpose of this descriptive study was the assessment of dietary intake and nutritional status in a selected group of CrossFit-trained participants. The study consisted of 62 CrossFit athletes (31 men and 31 women, aged 31.0 ± 5.2 and 30.0 ± 4.3 years, respectively). Body composition was analyzed by electrical bioimpedance. Dietary intake was assessed using a standardized 3-day food record. Body fat percentage for females and males was 20.3 ± 4.3% and 13.7 ± 3.3% respectively. The energy intake in the diet was lower (~1700 kcal in women and ~2300 kcal in men) than the recommended demand. Moreover, low consumption of carbohydrates was stated, as well as an inadequate intake of folate, vitamin E (in women), and minerals, such as Fe and Ca (in women). The energy, carbohydrate, iron, and calcium intake in the CrossFit participants' diet was too low in comparison to recommendations. It seems justified to educate athletes and coaches about nutritional habits, and individual energy and nutrients requirements.

Diet Quality, Carotenoid Status, and Body Composition in NCAA Division I Athletes

Objectives: In this paper, we examined diet quality and associations between changes in skin carotenoids and body composition among selected NCAA Division I athletes. Methods: Athletes from women's (rowing, swimming, gymnastics) and men's (swimming, wrestling) teams at a large Midwest university (N = 129) completed one online food frequency questionnaire and 2 in-person visits, once in-season and once out-of-season, to assess skin carotenoids and body composition. Diet quality was assessed via Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI). Carotenoids were measured via resonance Raman spectroscopy and body composition via dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. ANOVA and Pearson correlations were used to test differences between teams and determine association between changes from in-season to out-of-season. Results: Mean HEI score for all athletes was 71.0. Women's rowing reported the highest diet quality (73.5), men's wrestling lowest (56.5). Skin carotenoids decreased for all teams, except men's wrestling, from in-season to out-of-season. Body fat percentage increased for women and decreased for men. There was a moderate inverse association between changes in skin carotenoids and body fat percentage (r = -.334, p = .001). Conclusions: Suboptimal diet quality coupled with decreases in skin carotenoids and increases in body fat percentage from in-season to out-of-season may justify dietitian-led interventions year-round to improve dietary patterns in collegiate athletes.

The Role of Nutri(epi)genomics in Achieving the Body's Full Potential in Physical Activity

Physical activity represents a powerful tool to achieve optimal health. The overall activation of several molecular pathways is associated with many beneficial effects, mainly converging towards a reduced systemic inflammation. Not surprisingly, regular activity can contribute to lowering the “epigenetic age”, acting as a modulator of risk toward several diseases and enhancing longevity. Behind this, there are complex molecular mechanisms induced by exercise, which modulate gene expression, also through epigenetic modifications. The exercise-induced epigenetic imprint can be transient or permanent and contributes to the muscle memory, which allows the skeletal muscle adaptation to environmental stimuli previously encountered. Nutrition, through key macro- and micronutrients with antioxidant properties, can play an important role in supporting skeletal muscle trophism and those molecular pathways triggering the beneficial effects of physical activity. Nutrients and antioxidant food components, reversibly altering the epigenetic imprint, have a big impact on the phenotype. This assigns a role of primary importance to nutri(epi)genomics, not only in optimizing physical performance, but also in promoting long term health. The crosstalk between physical activity and nutrition represents a major environmental pressure able to shape human genotypes and phenotypes, thus, choosing the right combination of lifestyle factors ensures health and longevity.

Higher doses of a green tea-based supplement increase post-exercise blood flow following an acute resistance exercise bout in recreationally resistance-trained college-aged men

BACKGROUND

There are animal data suggesting green tea can enhance blood flow. However, human data are lacking. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of low and high doses of a green tea-based supplement (GBS) on brachial artery blood flow before and following a resistance exercise bout.

METHODS

In this, double-blinded placebo-controlled trial, college-aged males (n = 18) who self-reported recreationally resistance training for the previous 6 ± 3 years were assigned to one of two studies including a low (300 mg serving) (n = 9) or high dose (600 mg serving) (n = 8; 1 drop) GBS study. During testing sessions, participants reported to the laboratory following an overnight fast and rested in a supine position for 15 min. Thereafter, baseline measurements for resting heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), brachial artery diameter (BAD) and blood flow (BBF) were obtained (PRE). Participants then consumed either their respective GBS dose or a similar placebo dose (microcrystalline cellulose) in a supine resting state. HR, SBP, DBP, BAD and BBF were measured 45 min after placebo or GBS ingestion (PRE2). Participants were then placed in a recumbent position and performed 4 sets of 10 arm curl repetitions using an 11 kg dumbbell. Participants returned to a supine position and HR, SBP, DBP, BAD and BBF were obtained within the first 3 min following exercise (POST), 15 min after exercise (15POST), and 45 min after exercise (45POST). Participants returned to the laboratory 24-48 h later to repeat the same protocol with either GBS or the placebo depending on randomization. Two-way (supplement x time) repeated measures ANOVAs were used to compare dependent variables between testing sessions for Study 1 (300 mg of GBS and placebo) and Study 2 (600 mg of GBS and placebo), and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. No statistical comparisons were made between studies.

RESULTS

As expected, exercise increased BAD and BBF compared to resting baseline measured irrespective of supplementation. In addition, BAD and BBF did not differ between GBS and placebo at any time point after exercise in Study 1. In study 2, however, 600 mg GBS increased baseline-normalized BBF at immediately post exercise compared to placebo (placebo = 211 ± 155% increase, GBS = 349 ± 156% increase; p = 0.012) but not BAD.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest a higher dose of GBS can enhance localized blood flow acutely following a resistance exercise bout. However, the long-term implications of these data are unclear, and more well-powered studies are needed to validate efficacy and elucidate potential mechanisms.

The influence of progressive-chronic and acute sodium bicarbonate supplementation on anaerobic power and specific performance in team sports: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study

Background

The aims of this study were to verify the effect of progressive-chronic and acute sodium bicarbonate (SB) supplementation on the anaerobic capacity, blood acid-base balance, and discipline-specific performance in team sports disciplines.

Methods

Twenty-four trained male field hockey players completed a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of either progressive-chronic (increments from 0.05 up to 0.2 g/kg) or an acute one-off dose (0.2 g/kg) supplementation protocol. Before and after treatments, athletes completed an exercise protocol that comprised of a discipline-specific field performance test conducted between two separate Wingate anaerobic tests (WAnTs).

Results

Progressive-chronic SB supplementation improved anaerobic capacity in the first bout of WAnTs, as observed based on an increase in mean power (MP: 575 ± 71 vs. 602 ± 67 W, p = 0.005, ~ + 4.7%), peak power (PP: 749 ± 94 vs. 777 ± 96 W, p = 0.002, ~ + 3.7%), power carry threshold (P_CT) at 97%_PP (727 ± 91 vs. 753 ± 93 W, p = 0.002, ~ + 3.6%) and average power over P_CT (739 ± 94 vs. 765 ± 95 W, p = 0.001, ~ + 3.5%). Acute SB supplementation had no effect on anaerobic capacity. However, an improvement in time during discipline-specific field performance test was observed after progressive-chronic (919 ± 42 vs. 912 ± 27 s, p = 0.05; ~ - 0.8%) and acute (939 ± 26 vs. 914 ± 22 s, p = 0.006, ~ 2.7%) SB supplementation. Acute SB supplementation also improved post-exercise parameters of acid-base balance (based on blood pH, bicarbonate concentration and base excess) compared to no supplementation or placebo.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that both chronic and acute SB supplementation positively supports discipline-specific performance among field hockey athletes. Moreover, the chronic protocol supported anaerobic power indices before the inset of exercise-induced fatigue but had no significant impact afterwards. However, only the acute protocol significantly affected the buffering capacity, which can be used to determine athlete's performance during high-intensity sporting events. This study design therefore highlighted that future studies focusing on sodium bicarbonate supplementation in team sports should concentrate on the efficiency of chronic and acute supplementation in varying time frames.

Actual Nutrition and Dietary Supplementation in Lithuanian Elite Athletes

Background and objectives: Health is partly determined by the state of one's nutrition; it stimulates the body's functional and metabolic adaptations to physical strain and helps one prevent sports injuries and get in shape in terms of body composition. This study aims to investigate the actual nutrition and dietary supplements taken by elite Lithuanian athletes and to identify the relationship between the dietary intake, dietary supplementation and body composition of elite athletes. Materials and Methods: The research subjects were 76.7% of Lithuanian elite athletes (N = 247). The actual diet was investigated using the 24 h recall dietary survey method. Dietary supplementation was studied applying the questionnaire method. Measurements of body composition were performed using the BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) tetra-polar electrodes and measuring resistivity with 8-12 tangent electrodes at different frequencies of signal: 5, 50 and 250 kHz. Results: Results indicate that among the athletes, 62% use too few carbohydrates and 77% use too much fat. Although the 3.5% increase in lean body mass (95% CI: -0.107, 7.070) helps gain an increased protein intake with food (p = 0.057), 38% of athletes consume too little protein with food. The athletes mostly use carbohydrates (86%), vitamins (81%), protein supplements (70%), and multivitamins (62%). We did not determine the impact (p > 0.05) of individual or complex supplement use on the lean body mass (%) or fat mass (%) values of athletes. Conclusions: Athletes consume insufficient carbohydrates, vitamin D, calcium, polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and too much fat, saturated fatty acids, cholesterol, and they use proteins irrationally. Sport nutritionists should also focus on the risk of malnutrition for female athletes. Nutritional supplements partially offset macronutrient and micronutrient deficiency. Nevertheless, the effect of food supplements on the body composition of athletes is too small compared to the normal diet. Athletes ought to prioritize the formation of eating habits and only then use supplements.

The athletic gut microbiota

The microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract play a significant role in nutrient uptake, vitamin synthesis, energy harvest, inflammatory modulation, and host immune response, collectively contributing to human health. Important factors such as age, birth method, antibiotic use, and diet have been established as formative factors that shape the gut microbiota. Yet, less described is the role that exercise plays, particularly how associated factors and stressors, such as sport/exercise-specific diet, environment, and their interactions, may influence the gut microbiota. In particular, high-level athletes offer remarkable physiology and metabolism (including muscular strength/power, aerobic capacity, energy expenditure, and heat production) compared to sedentary individuals, and provide unique insight in gut microbiota research. In addition, the gut microbiota with its ability to harvest energy, modulate the immune system, and influence gastrointestinal health, likely plays an important role in athlete health, wellbeing, and sports performance. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms in which the gut microbiota could play in the role of influencing athletic performance is of considerable interest to athletes who work to improve their results in competition as well as reduce recovery time during training. Ultimately this research is expected to extend beyond athletics as understanding optimal fitness has applications for overall health and wellness in larger communities. Therefore, the purpose of this narrative review is to summarize current knowledge of the athletic gut microbiota and the factors that shape it. Exercise, associated dietary factors, and the athletic classification promote a more “health-associated” gut microbiota. Such features include a higher abundance of health-promoting bacterial species, increased microbial diversity, functional metabolic capacity, and microbial-associated metabolites, stimulation of bacterial abundance that can modulate mucosal immunity, and improved gastrointestinal barrier function.

Effects of Arginine Supplementation on Athletic Performance Based on Energy Metabolism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Nitric oxide related ergogenic aids such as arginine (Arg) have shown to impact positively on sport performance through several physiological and metabolic mechanisms. However, research results have shown to be controversial. The great differences regarding required metabolic pathways and physiological demands between aerobic and anaerobic sport disciplines could be the reasons. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of Arg supplementation on aerobic (≤VO₂max) and anaerobic (>VO₂max) performance. Likewise, to show the effective dose and timing of this supplementation. A structured search was carried out in accordance with PRISMA^® (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement and PICOS guidelines in PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science (WOS), and Scopus databases from inception to January 2020. Eighteen studies were included which compare Arg supplementation with placebo in an identical situation and testing its effects on aerobic and anaerobic performance tests. Trials analyzing supplementation with other supplements were removed and there was not athlete's level, gender, ethnicity, or age filters. The performed meta-analysis included 15 studies and random effects model and pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) were used according to Hedges' g. Results revealed that Arg supplementation could improve aerobic (SMD, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.12 to 1.56; magnitude of SMD (MSMD), large; I2, 89%; p = 0.02) and anaerobic (SMD, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.43; MSMD, small; I2, 0%; p = 0.01) performance tests. In conclusion, acute Arg supplementation protocols to improve aerobic and anaerobic performance should be adjusted to 0.15 g/kg of body weight ingested between 60-90 min before. Moreover, chronic Arg supplementation should include 1.5-2 g/day for 4-7 weeks in order to improve aerobic performance, and 10-12 g/day for 8 weeks to enhance anaerobic performance.

Statin therapy in athletes and patients performing regular intense exercise - Position paper from the International Lipid Expert Panel (ILEP)

Acute and chronic physical exercises may enhance the development of statin-related myopathy. In this context, the recent (2019) guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) for the management of dyslipidemias recommend that, although individuals with dyslipidemia should be advised to engage in regular moderate physical exercise (for at least 30 min daily), physicians should be alerted with regard to myopathy and creatine kinase (CK) elevation in statin-treated sport athletes. However it is worth emphasizing that abovementioned guidelines, previous and recent ESC/EAS consensus papers on adverse effects of statin therapy as well as other previous attempts on this issue, including the ones from the International Lipid Expert Panel (ILEP), give only general recommendations on how to manage patients requiring statin therapy on regular exercises. Therefore, these guidelines in the form of the Position Paper are the first such an attempt to summary existing, often scarce knowledge, and to present this important issue in the form of step-by-step practical recommendations. It is critically important as we might observe more and more individuals on regular exercises/athletes requiring statin therapy due to their cardiovascular risk.

Effect of 8-week of dietary micronutrient supplementation on gene expression in elite handball athletes

Purpose

A study was made of the changes in gene expression in elite handball athletes, comparing gene modulation before, after and in the absence of an 8-week nutritional intervention with multivitamin/mineral supplements.

Methods

Thirteen elite handball athletes (aged 22.9 ± 2.7 years) and 13 sedentary controls (aged 20.9 ± 2.8 years) were included. Three timepoints were established: T0 (baseline conditions); T8 (after 8 weeks of supplementation with a multivitamin/mineral complex); and T16 (after 8 weeks in the absence of supplementation). The expressions of a total 112 of genes were evaluated by RT-qPCR analysis with the QuantStudioTM 12K Flex Real-Time PCR System.

Results

The analysis revealed different gene regulation profiles of genes implicated in cell communication, cell energy metabolism, inflammation and the immune system, oxidative stress and muscle function in athletes compared to sedentary controls under resting conditions (upregulated genes: effect size = large, ƞ2 = 1.011 to 1.398, p < 0.05; downregulated genes: effect size = large, ƞ2 = 0.846 and 1.070, p < 0.05, respectively). The nutritional intervention encouraged gene upregulation in elite athletes (p < 0.05). In a follow-up investigation, the IRAK1, CD81, ITGB1, ACADS PDHA2 and GPX1 genes were downregulated in athletes, with a moderate main effect for time-by-group interaction (ηP2 = 0.099 to 0.133; p < 0.05). Additionally, nutritional genes such as MTHFR and THTPA revealed a moderate effect over all the timepoints and group interaction in the study (ηP2 = 0.070 to 0.092; p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Elite handball athletes showed a different expression profile in reference to key genes implicated in several sports performance-related functions compared to the sedentary controls, in addition to modulation of gene expression after multivitamin/mineral supplementation.

Strategies and Solutions for Team Sports Athletes in Isolation due to COVID-19

In December of 2019, there was an outbreak of a severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by the Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19) in China. The virus rapidly spread into the whole World causing an unprecedented pandemic and forcing governments to impose a global quarantine, entering an extreme unknown situation. The organizational consequences of quarantine/isolation are: absence of organized training and competition, lack of communication among athletes and coaches, inability to move freely, lack of adequate sunlight exposure, inappropriate training conditions. Based on the current scientific, we strongly recommend encouraging the athlete to reset their mindset to understand quarantine as an opportunity for development, organizing appropriate guidance, educating and encourage athletes to apply appropriate preventive behavior and hygiene measures to promote immunity and ensuring good living isolation conditions. The athlete's living space should be equipped with cardio and resistance training equipment (portable bicycle or rowing ergometer). Some forms of body mass resistance circuit-based training could promote aerobic adaptation. Sports skills training should be organized based on the athlete's needs. Personalized conditioning training should be carried out with emphasis on neuromuscular performance. Athletes should also be educated about nutrition (Vitamin D and proteins) and hydration. Strategies should be developed to control body composition. Mental fatigue should be anticipated and mental controlled. Adequate methods of recovery should be provided. Daily monitoring should be established. This is an ideal situation in which to rethink personal life, understanding the situation, that can be promoted in these difficult times that affect practically the whole world.

Acute Caffeine Supplementation Does Not Improve Performance in Trained CrossFit® Athletes

Caffeine's ergogenic effects persist during various exercise modalities; however, information establishing its efficacy during CrossFit^® protocols is limited. This study aimed to determine the effects of caffeine supplementation on CrossFit^® performance. Twenty CrossFit^®-trained men (age = 26.7 ± 6.2 years, experience = 3.7 ± 2.9 years) were randomized in a double-blind, crossover design. Participants completed two sessions separated by a seven-day washout period, 60 min after consuming 5 mg/kg body mass of caffeine or a placebo. In each session, participants completed as many rounds as possible in 20 min of five pull-ups, 10 push-ups, and 15 air squats. CrossFit^® performance was the total number of repetitions completed in 20 min. Paired-samples t-tests were used to compare CrossFit^® performance between caffeine and placebo conditions and to test for a potential learning effect between the first and second sessions. CrossFit^® performance was not significantly different during the caffeine condition compared to the placebo (468.6 ± 114.7 vs. 466.7 ± 94.3 repetitions, p = 0.861). A significant learning effect was identified between the first and second sessions (452.4 ± 101 vs. 483.8 ± 106.5 repetitions, p = 0.001), with no significant effect of treatment order (p = 0.438). Caffeine's ergogenic effect were not present during the CrossFit^® workout "Cindy"; however, future research should include familiarization sessions and examine other CrossFit^® workouts in novice and women participants.

Which are the Nutritional Supplements Used by Beach-Volleyball Athletes? A Cross-Sectional Study at the Italian National Championship

Beach volleyball is an intermittent team sport played under high temperature and humidity. Given that some nutritional supplements can enhance sports performance, this study aimed to evaluate the quantity and the heterogeneity of the nutritional supplementation practices of amateur (n = 69) and professional (n = 19) beach volley athletes competing in the Italian National Championship; an online form was used to collect data about the supplementation habits. The latent class analysis was used to find sub-groups characterised by different habits regarding supplements consumption. The most frequently used supplements (more than once a week) are vitamins B and C (39.2% of athletes), protein (46.8%), and caffeine (36.9%). The latent class analysis revealed three different sub-groups of athletes: the first class (56.7%) included athletes who were used to take very few supplements, the second class (17.0%) was characterised by higher consumption of supplements and the third class (26.2%) was in the middle between the others two. Groups were characterised not only by the quantity but also by the category of supplements used. Our results highlighted a high heterogeneity in supplementation habits. A pragmatic approach to supplements and sports foods is needed in the face of the evidence that some products can usefully contribute to enhancing performance.

Sports Supplements: Pearls and Pitfalls

Sports supplements can be generally divided into 3 categories: sports foods (foods/drinks containing macronutrients), medical supplements (vitamins/minerals used to treat deficiencies), and ergogenic supplements (used to benefit performance). Supplements are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration. They may get to the market and be contaminated with substances banned in sport or dangerous to health; and the contents may not contain what is listed on the label. When choosing to use a supplement, the safest practice is to choose a certified brand, which tests and authenticates label verification, quality, and lack of contaminants and banned substances for sport.

The gender dependent influence of sodium bicarbonate supplementation on anaerobic power and specific performance in female and male wrestlers

The aim of this study was the assessment of progressive low-dose sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) supplementation on the anaerobic indices in two bouts of Wingate tests (WT) separated by wrestling-specific performance test and assessing the gender differences in response. Fifty-one (18 F) wrestlers completed a randomized trial of either a NaHCO₃ (up to 100 mg·kg⁻¹) or a placebo for 10 days. Before and after treatment, athletes completed an exercise protocol that comprised, in sequence, the first WT₁, dummy throw test (DT), and second WT₂. The number of completed throws increased significantly in males from 19.3 ± 2.6 NaHCO_3pre to 21.7 ± 2.9 NaHCO_3post. ΔWT₂-WT₁ improved particularly in the midsection of 30-s WT on NaHCO₃. However, no significant differences were found in peak power (PP), power drop (PD) and average power (AP) (analyzed separately for each WT), and ΔWT₂-WT₁ in PP and PD. Interaction with gender was significant for AP, PP and PD, every second of WT₁ and WT₂, as well as DT test. In conclusion, our study suggests that the response to NaHCO₃ may be gender-specific and progressive low-dose NaHCO₃ supplementation allows the advantageous strengthening of wrestling-specific performance in males. It can also lead to maintenance of high anaerobic power mainly in the midsection of the 30-s Wingate test.

Nutritional Recommendations for Physique Athletes

The popularity of physique sports is increasing, yet there are currently few comprehensive nutritional guidelines for these athletes. Physique sport now encompasses more than just a short phase before competition and offseason guidelines have recently been published. Therefore, the goal of this review is to provide an extensive guide for male and female physique athletes in the contest preparation and recovery period. As optimal protein intake is largely related to one’s skeletal muscle mass, current evidence supports a range of 1.8-2.7 g/kg. Furthermore, as a benefit from having adequate carbohydrate to fuel performance and activity, low-end fat intake during contest preparation of 10-25% of calories allows for what calories remain in the “energy budget” to come from carbohydrate to mitigate the negative impact of energy restriction and weight loss on training performance. For nutrient timing, we recommend consuming four or five protein boluses per day with one consumed near training and one prior to sleep. During competition periods, slower rates of weight loss (≤0.5% of body mass per week) are preferable for attenuating the loss of fat-free mass with the use of intermittent energy restriction strategies, such as diet breaks and refeeds, being possibly beneficial. Additionally, physiological and psychological factors are covered, and potential best-practice guidelines are provided for disordered eating and body image concerns since physique athletes present with higher incidences of these issues, which may be potentially exacerbated by certain traditional physique practices. We also review common peaking practices, and the critical transition to the post-competition period.

Effect of Multi-Ingredient Preworkout Supplementation on Repeated Sprint Performance in Recreationally Active Men and Women

Gonzalez, AM, Pinzone, AG, Bram, J, Salisbury, JL, Lee, S, and Mangine, GT. Effect of multi-ingredient preworkout supplementation on repeated sprint performance in recreationally active men and women. J Strength Cond Res 34(4): 918-923, 2020-The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of acute supplementation of a multi-ingredient preworkout supplement (MIPS), containing a proprietary blend of ancient peat and apple extracts, creatine monohydrate, taurine, ribose, and magnesium, on sprint cycling performance. Seventeen recreationally active men and women (23.2 ± 5.9 years; 172.9 ± 14.3 cm; 82.4 ± 14.5 kg) underwent 2 testing sessions administered in a randomized, counterbalanced, double-blind fashion. Subjects were provided either MIPS or placebo (PL) one hour before performing a sprint cycling protocol, which consisted of ten 5-second "all-out" sprints interspersed by 55 seconds of unloaded pedaling. Average power (PAVG), peak power (PPK), average velocity (VAVG), and distance covered were recorded for each sprint. Separate linear mixed models revealed decrements (p < 0.05) compared to the first sprint in PAVG (75-229 W) and PPK (79-209 W) throughout all consecutive sprints after the initial sprint during PL. Likewise, diminished (p ≤ 0.029) VAVG (3.37-6.36 m·s) and distance covered (7.77-9.00 m) were noted after the third and fifth sprints, respectively, during PL. By contrast, during MIPS, only VAVG decreased (2.34-5.87 m·s, p ≤ 0.002) on consecutive sprints after the first sprint, whereas PAVG and PPK were maintained. In addition, a significant decrease (p = 0.045) in distance covered was only observed on the ninth sprint during MIPS. These data suggest that recreational athletes who consumed the MIPS formulation, one hour before a repeated sprinting session on a cycle ergometer, better maintained performance compared with PL.

[Analysis of nutritional intake in trail runners during competition]

Introduction

Introduction: there has been an increase in the number of endurance sports events during the last 20 years, as well as in the number of their participants. An adequate nutritional plan is essential for a satisfactory performance in this type of events, both in professional and amateur athletes. Objectives: the objective was to determine, evaluate, and compare with the current scientific recommendations the consumption of carbohydrates, water, and sodium by participants in a trail-running event. Methods: the competition completed by the athletes was the "Medio Trail de Alcoy 2019" (Alcoy, Spain), with a distance of 30 km. After completing the race, participants filled out a questionnaire about their food and drink consumption during the event, in addition to other questions about their nutritional habits in general. Eleven participants who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Results: the result obtained for average carbohydrate intake was 14.93 g/h, for sodium intake was 146.42 mg/h, and for water intake was 399.73 mL/h. In all, 27 % of participants visited a dietitian-nutritionist on a regular basis, and none reported gastrointestinal tract issues during the race. Conclusions: the carbohydrate and sodium consumption of participants was low as compared to current scientific recommendations; however, water consumption was adequate according to them. Our advice for endurance athletes is visit a specialized dietitian-nutritionist to achieve optimal performance in competitions.

Quercetin, Epigallocatechin Gallate, Curcumin, and Resveratrol: From Dietary Sources to Human MicroRNA Modulation

Epidemiologic studies suggest that dietary polyphenol intake is associated with a lower incidence of several non-communicable diseases. Although several foods contain complex mixtures of polyphenols, numerous factors can affect their content. Besides the well-known capability of these molecules to act as antioxidants, they are able to interact with cell-signaling pathways, modulating gene expression, influencing the activity of transcription factors, and modulating microRNAs. Here we deeply describe four polyphenols used as nutritional supplements: quercetin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC), and curcumin, summarizing the current knowledge about them, spanning from dietary sources to the epigenetic capabilities of these compounds on microRNA modulation.

The Effect of Training on Erythrocyte Energy Status and Plasma Purine Metabolites in Athletes

This study aimed to assess the changes in red blood cell (RBC) energy status and plasma purine metabolites concentration over a one-year training cycle in endurance-trained (EN; n = 11, 20–26 years), and sprint-trained (SP; n = 11, 20–30 years) competitive athletes in comparison to recreationally-trained individuals (RE; n = 11, 20–26 years). Somatic, physiological, and biochemical variables were measured in four training phases differing in exercise load profile: transition, general, specific, and competition. Significantly highest values of RBC adenylate energy charge (AEC; p ≤ 0.001), ATP-to-ADP and ADP-to-AMP ratios (p ≤ 0.05), and plasma levels of adenosine (Ado; p ≤ 0.05) were noted in the competition phase in the EN and SP, but not in the RE group. Significantly lowest plasma levels of adenosine diphosphate (ADP; p ≤ 0.05), adenosine monophosphate (AMP; p ≤ 0.001), inosine (Ino; p ≤ 0.001), and hypoxanthine (Hx; p ≤ 0.001) accompanied by higher erythrocyte hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) activity (p ≤ 0.001), were observed in the competition phase in both athletic groups. No significant alterations were found in the erythrocyte concentration of guanine nucleotides in any group. In conclusion, periodized training of competitive athletes’ results in a favorable adaptation of RBC metabolism. The observed changes cover improved RBC energy status (increased AEC and ATP/ADP ratio) and reduced purine loss with more efficient erythrocyte purine pool recovery (increased HGPRT activity and plasma levels of Ado; decreased Hx and Ino concentration).

Infrared Low-Level Laser Therapy (Photobiomodulation Therapy) before Intense Progressive Running Test of High-Level Soccer Players: Effects on Functional, Muscle Damage, Inflammatory, and Oxidative Stress Markers-A Randomized Controlled Trial

The effects of preexercise photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) to enhance performance, accelerate recovery, and attenuate exercise-induced oxidative stress were still not fully investigated, especially in high-level athletes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of PBMT (using infrared low-level laser therapy) applied before a progressive running test on functional aspects, muscle damage, and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in high-level soccer players. A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial was performed. Twenty-two high-level male soccer players from the same team were recruited and treated with active PBMT and placebo. The order of interventions was randomized. Immediately after the application of active PBMT or placebo, the volunteers performed a standardized high-intensity progressive running test (ergospirometry test) until exhaustion. We analyzed rates of oxygen uptake (VO_{2 max}), time until exhaustion, and aerobic and anaerobic threshold during the intense progressive running test. Creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities, levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1-β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), levels of thiobarbituric acid (TBARS) and carbonylated proteins, and catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were measured before and five minutes after the end of the test. PBMT increased the VO_{2 max} (both relative and absolute values—p < 0.0467 and p < 0.0013, respectively), time until exhaustion (p < 0.0043), time (p < 0.0007) and volume (p < 0.0355) in which anaerobic threshold happened, and volume in which aerobic threshold happened (p < 0.0068). Moreover, PBMT decreased CK (p < 0.0001) and LDH (p < 0.0001) activities. Regarding the cytokines, PBMT decreased only IL-6 (p < 0.0001). Finally, PBMT decreased TBARS (p < 0.0001) and carbonylated protein levels (p < 0.01) and increased SOD (p < 0.0001)and CAT (p < 0.0001) activities. The findings of this study demonstrate that preexercise PBMT acts on different functional aspects and biochemical markers. Moreover, preexercise PBMT seems to play an important antioxidant effect, decreasing exercise-induced oxidative stress and consequently enhancing athletic performance and improving postexercise recovery. This trial is registered with Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03803956.

Sex differences in dietary intake in British Army recruits undergoing phase one training

Background

British Army Phase One training exposes men and women to challenging distances of 13.5 km·d^− 1 vs. 11.8 km·d^− 1 and energy expenditures of ~ 4000 kcal·d^− 1 and ~ 3000 kcal·d^− 1, respectively. As such, it is essential that adequate nutrition is provided to support training demands. However, to date, there is a paucity of data on habitual dietary intake of British Army recruits. The aims of this study were to: (i) compare habitual dietary intake in British Army recruits undergoing Phase One training to Military Dietary Reference Values (MDRVs), and (ii) establish if there was a relative sex difference in dietary intake between men and women.

Method

Researcher led weighed food records and food diaries were used to assess dietary intake in twenty-eight women (age 21.4 ± 3.0 yrs., height: 163.7 ± 5.0 cm, body mass 65.0 ± 6.7 kg), and seventeen men (age 20.4 ± 2.3 yrs., height: 178.0 ± 7.9 cm, body mass 74.6 ± 8.1 kg) at the Army Training Centre, Pirbright for 8-days in week ten of training. Macro and micronutrient content were estimated using dietary analysis software (Nutritics, Dublin) and assessed via an independent sample t-test to establish if there was a sex difference in daily energy, macro or micronutrient intakes.

Results

Estimated daily energy intake was less than the MDRV for both men and women, with men consuming a greater amount of energy compared with women (2846 ± 573 vs. 2207 ± 585 kcal·day^− 1, p < 0.001). Both sexes under consumed carbohydrate (CHO) when data was expressed relative to body mass with men consuming a greater amount than women (4.8 ± 1.3 vs. 3.8 ± 1.4 g·kg^− 1·day^− 1, p = 0.025, ES = 0.74). Both sexes also failed to meet MDRVs for protein intake with men consuming more than women (1.5 ± 0.3 vs. 1.3 ± 0.3 g·kg^− 1·day^− 1, p > 0.030, ES = 0.67). There were no differences in dietary fat intake between men and women (1.5 ± 0.2 vs. 1.5 ± 0.5 g·kg^− 1·day^− 1, p = 0.483, ES = 0.00).

Conclusions

Daily EI in men and women in Phase One training does not meet MDRVs. Interventions to increase macronutrient intakes should be considered along with research investigating the potential benefits for increasing different macronutrient intakes on training adaptations.

Characterization, dietary habits and nutritional intake of omnivorous, lacto-ovo vegetarian and vegan runners - a pilot study

BACKGROUND

The number of people preferring plant-based nutrition is growing continuously in the western world. Vegetarianism and veganism are also becoming increasingly popular among individuals participating in sport. However, whether recreationally active vegetarian and vegan populations can meet their nutritional needs is not clear.

METHODS

The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to compare the nutrient intake of omnivorous (OMN, n = 27), lacto-ovo vegetarian (LOV, n = 25) and vegan (VEG, n = 27) recreational runners (two to five training sessions per week) with intake recommendations of the German, Austrian and Swiss Nutrition Societies (Deutsche, Österreichische und Schweizerische Gesellschaften für Ernährung, D-A-CH) for the general population. Lifestyle factors and supplement intake were examined via questionnaires; dietary habits and nutrient intake were determined based on 3-day dietary records.

RESULTS

More than half of each group did not reach the recommended energy intake (OMN: 10.4, 8.70-12.1; LOV: 9.67, 8.55-10.8; VEG: 10.2, 9.12-11.3 MJ). Carbohydrate intake was slightly below the recommendations of > 50 EN% in OMN (46.7, 43.6-49.8 EN%), while LOV (49.4, 45.5-53.3 EN%) and VEG (55.2, 51.4-59.0 EN%) consumed adequate amounts (p = 0.003). The recommended protein intake of 0.8 g/kg body weight (D-A-CH) was exceeded in all three groups (OMN: 1.50, 1.27-1.66; LOV: 1.34, 1.09-1.56; VEG: 1.25; 1.07-1.42 g/kg BW; p = 0.047). Only VEG (26.3, 22.7-29.8 EN%) did not achieve the recommended fat intake of 30 EN%. The supply of micronutrients, such as vitamin D and cobalamin, was dependent on supplement intake. Additionally, female OMN and LOV achieved the recommended daily intake of 15 mg iron only after supplementation, while VEG consumed adequate amounts solely via food.

CONCLUSION

All three groups were sufficiently supplied with most nutrients despite the exceptions mentioned above. The VEG group even showed advantages in nutrient intake (e.g. carbohydrates, fiber and iron) in comparison to the other groups. However, the demand for energy and several macro- and micronutrients might be higher for athletes. Thus, it is also necessary to analyze the endogenous status of nutrients to evaluate the influence of a vegetarian and vegan diet on the nutrient supply of athletes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS00012377), registered on April 28, 2017.

Effects of acute caffeine, theanine and tyrosine supplementation on mental and physical performance in athletes

BACKGROUND

A limited amount of research has demonstrated beneficial effects of caffeine and theanine supplementation for enhancement of mental performance. The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the acute ingestion of a supplement containing caffeine, theanine and tyrosine improves mental and physical performance in athletes.

METHODS

Twenty current or former male collegiate athletes (age: 20.5 ± 1.4 y; height: 1.82 ± 0.08 m; weight: 83.9 ± 12.6 kg; body fat: 13.8 ± 5.6%) completed this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial. After familiarization, each participant completed two identical testing sessions with provision of a proprietary dietary supplement (SUP) containing caffeine theanine and tyrosine or a placebo (PL). Within each testing session, participants completed assessments of mental and physical performance before and after provision of SUP or PL, as well as after two rounds of exercise. Assessments were performed using a performance testing device (Makoto Arena) that evaluated multiple aspects of mental and physical performance in response to auditory and visual stimuli. Testing was performed both with the body in a static position and during dynamic movement. General linear models were used to evaluate the effects of SUP and PL on performance.

RESULTS

Changes in movement accuracy during performance assessment were greater following SUP ingestion as compared to PL for both static and dynamic testing (SUP: + 0.4 to 7.5%; PL: - 1.4 to 1.4% on average; p < 0.05). For dynamic testing, the change in number of targets hit was higher and the change in average hit time was lower with SUP as compared to PL (p < 0.05). However, there were no differences between conditions for the changes in number of targets hit or average hit time during static testing. There were no differences in changes of subjective variables during either condition, and performance measures during the two rounds of exercise did not differ between conditions (p > 0.05).

DISCUSSION

The present results indicate that a combination of a low-dose of caffeine with theanine and tyrosine may improve athletes' movement accuracy surrounding bouts of exhaustive exercise without altering subjective variables. Based on this finding, supplementation with caffeine, theanine and tyrosine could potentially hold ergogenic value for athletes in sports requiring rapid and accurate movements.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03019523. Registered 24 January 2017.

Effect of Bang® Pre-Workout Master Blaster® combined with four weeks of resistance training on lean body mass, maximal strength, mircoRNA expression, and serum IGF-1 in men: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Background

The aim of the current study was to determine if 4 weeks of consumption of Bang® Pre-Workout Master Blaster® (BMB; Vital Pharmaceuticals Inc., Weston, FL) combined with resistance training resulted in greater increases in muscle mass and maximal strength compared with resistance training combined with placebo (PLA). Additionally, we aimed to determine if BMB ingestion combined with resistance training preferentially altered resting skeletal muscle expression of microRNAs (miRs) or resting serum insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1).

Methods

Sixteen recreationally-active men completed the study. The study employed a block-randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel design. Participants completed two testing sessions separated by 4 weeks of resistance exercise combined with daily supplementation of BMB or PLA. At each testing session, hemodynamics, body composition, and muscle and blood samples were obtained followed by strength assessments of the lower- and upper-body via measurement of squat and bench press one-repetition maximum (1-RM), respectively. A separate general linear model was utilized for analysis of each variable to determine the effect of each supplement (between-factor) over time (within-factor) using an a priori probability level of ≤0.05.

Results

No significant effects were observed for dietary intake, hemodynamics, fat mass, body fat percentage, or serum IGF-1. A greater increase in total body mass (3.19 kg, 95% CI, 1.98 kg, 4.40 kg vs. 0.44 kg, 95% CI, − 0.50 kg, 1.39 kg) and lean body mass (3.15 kg, 95% CI, 1.80 kg, 4.49 kg vs. 0.89 kg, 95% CI, − 0.14 kg, 1.93 kg) was observed for the BMB group compared with PLA (p <  0.01). A significant increase over time was observed for miR-23a (p = 0.02) and miR-23b (p = 0.05) expression. A greater increase in squat 1-RM was observed for the BMB group (23.86 kg, 95% CI, 16.75 kg, 30.97 kg) compared with the PLA group (14.20 kg, 95% CI, 7.04 kg, 21.37 kg, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

BMB supplementation combined with resistance exercise training for 4 weeks resulted in superior adaptations in maximal strength and LBM compared with resistance training with a placebo. No adverse resting hemodynamic or clinical blood safety markers were observed as a result of BMB supplementation. The superior outcomes associated with BMB supplementation could not be explained by resting serum IGF-1 or the skeletal muscle miRs measured, although resting miR-23a and miR-23b expression both increased as a result of resistance training.

International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: nutritional considerations for single-stage ultra-marathon training and racing

Background

In this Position Statement, the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) provides an objective and critical review of the literature pertinent to nutritional considerations for training and racing in single-stage ultra-marathon. Recommendations for Training. i) Ultra-marathon runners should aim to meet the caloric demands of training by following an individualized and periodized strategy, comprising a varied, food-first approach; ii) Athletes should plan and implement their nutrition strategy with sufficient time to permit adaptations that enhance fat oxidative capacity; iii) The evidence overwhelmingly supports the inclusion of a moderate-to-high carbohydrate diet (i.e., ~ 60% of energy intake, 5–8 g·kg^− 1·d^− 1) to mitigate the negative effects of chronic, training-induced glycogen depletion; iv) Limiting carbohydrate intake before selected low-intensity sessions, and/or moderating daily carbohydrate intake, may enhance mitochondrial function and fat oxidative capacity. Nevertheless, this approach may compromise performance during high-intensity efforts; v) Protein intakes of ~ 1.6 g·kg^− 1·d^− 1 are necessary to maintain lean mass and support recovery from training, but amounts up to 2.5 g.kg^− 1·d^− 1 may be warranted during demanding training when calorie requirements are greater; Recommendations for Racing. vi) To attenuate caloric deficits, runners should aim to consume 150–400 Kcal·h^− 1 (carbohydrate, 30–50 g·h^− 1; protein, 5–10 g·h^− 1) from a variety of calorie-dense foods. Consideration must be given to food palatability, individual tolerance, and the increased preference for savory foods in longer races; vii) Fluid volumes of 450–750 mL·h^− 1 (~ 150–250 mL every 20 min) are recommended during racing. To minimize the likelihood of hyponatraemia, electrolytes (mainly sodium) may be needed in concentrations greater than that provided by most commercial products (i.e., > 575 mg·L^− 1 sodium). Fluid and electrolyte requirements will be elevated when running in hot and/or humid conditions; viii) Evidence supports progressive gut-training and/or low-FODMAP diets (fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide and polyol) to alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal distress during racing; ix) The evidence in support of ketogenic diets and/or ketone esters to improve ultra-marathon performance is lacking, with further research warranted; x) Evidence supports the strategic use of caffeine to sustain performance in the latter stages of racing, particularly when sleep deprivation may compromise athlete safety.

Dietary intakes of professional Australian football league women's (AFLW) athletes during a preseason training week

OBJECTIVES

In 2016 the Australian football league introduced the first women's league, integrating part-time female athletes into the professional sporting environment. This study aims to assess the dietary intakes of professional Australian football league women's (AFLW) athletes to highlight key focus areas for nutrition and additionally provide nutrition recommendations for dietitians working with these athletes.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Dietary intake data was collected from 23 players from the same club competing in the Australian football league women's, during a preseason week. Dietary intakes were assessed using three day estimated food records.

RESULTS

Majority of athletes did not meet recommendations for carbohydrate (96%, n=22), iron (87%, n=20) and calcium (61%, n=14). In comparison, majority of athletes met protein (74%, n=17) and fat (78%, n=18) recommendations. No significant difference was found in energy intake on main training, light training and recovery days (p>0.05). Energy and carbohydrate intakes reported by AFLW athletes (1884±457kcalday-1 and 2.7±0.7gkg-1day-1) were consistent with values reported in previous studies that included professional female athletes.

CONCLUSIONS

This research highlights that further exploration of the factors that influence dietary intake is required to support athletes to meet energy and carbohydrate recommendations required for desired training and performance outcomes.

Regulatory framework for dietary supplements and the public health challenge

OBJECTIVE

The new regulatory framework for dietary supplements in Brazil prompted this analysis of the current outlook of these products and the challenges posed by the new guidelines.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative, observational and descriptive study of dietary supplements commercialized in Brazilian online stores with the help of the Google® search tool. We considered the ingredients on the labels, the effects attributed to these products and the commercial claims used as a means of promoting them to assess the necessary changes for the legal framework in the new guidelines. Finally, with the help of a database, we compared the effects declared by the manufacturers and attributed to certain ingredients with the scientific evidence described in literature.

RESULTS

In total, we purchased 44 dietary supplements from Brazilian online stores (n = 7). Of the samples studied, 34.2% could not be classified in the category Dietary Supplements, as recommended by the new regulation of the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency due to the presence of prohibited substances; 16% of products should be commercialized as medicines. Regarding the commercial appeals, 97.7% had banned expressions. Numerous claims of effects attributed to certain products were characterized as consumer fraud because they have no scientific evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

The necessary changes represent a major regulatory and production challenge due to the wide range of dietary supplements and markets, an effort that aims to protect the consumers' health. Some previous gaps in the regulatory framework were not fully solved.

Nutrient Status and perceptions of energy and macronutrient intake in a Group of Collegiate Female Lacrosse Athletes

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare nutritional intakes against recommended values as well as between the perceived intake and needs of female lacrosse players.

Methods

Twenty female NCAA Division II lacrosse players (20.0 ± 1.7 yrs., 169.7 ± 6.4 cm; 69.9 ± 10.7 kg; 27.5 ± 3.3% fat) completed a four-day monitoring period during in-season. Athletes were outfitted with an activity monitor over four consecutive days and completed four-day food records to assess total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) and dietary intake. Body composition was assessed and used to calculate recommended dietary intakes. Actual intake was self-reported using a commercially available food tracking program (MyFitnessPal©, USA). Daily average values were calculated for total and relative energy, protein, carbohydrate, and fat intake. These values were then compared to published nutritional recommendations established by the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Appropriate pairwise comparisons were made depending on the normality of the distribution.

Results

Athletes ate significantly less than recommended values for energy, carbohydrates and protein. (p < 0.001). Significant discrepancies (p < 0.001) were also observed between perceptions of intake versus actual intake.

Conclusions

Athletes significantly underestimated perceived intake of dietary fat and carbohydrate when compared to perceived needs. Massive standard deviations and ranges were observed, suggesting that some athletes lack a basic understanding of their daily needs. Results from this data suggest that collegiate athletes lack appropriate understanding of basic nutrition needs and could benefit from basic nutrition education as it pertains to their health and performance.

Prevalence of Low Energy Availability in Competitively Trained Male Endurance Athletes

Background and Objectives: Relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S) has been introduced as a broad-spectrum syndrome leading to possible dysfunction in numerous physiological systems, driven primarily by low energy availability (EA). Research in females has identified specific EA cut-points indicative of risk level for developing physiological and performance disturbances. Cut-points in males have yet to be evaluated. This study examined the prevalence of low EA in competitive (non-elite), recreationally trained (CRT) male endurance athletes. Materials and Methods: Subjects were 108 CRT (38.6 ± 13.8 y; 12.2 ± 5.4 h/wk training) male endurance athletes (runners, cyclists, triathletes) who completed a descriptive survey online via Qualtrics^® and returned 3 day diet and exercise training records. EA was calculated from returned surveys and training records. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) and lean body mass (LBM) were estimated from self-reported survey data. Prevalence of risk group was categorized based on the female cut-points: At risk (AR) ≤30 kcal/kg LBM, moderate risk (MR) = 30–45 kcal/kg LBM, or no risk (NR) ≥45 kcal/kg LBM. Results: In this sample, 47.2% (n = 51) were classified as AR, 33.3% (n = 36) as MR, and 19.4% (n = 21) as NR for low EA. Cyclists had lower EA (26.9 ± 17.4 kcal/kg LBM, n = 45) than runners (34.6 ± 13.3 kcal/kg LBM, n = 55, p = 0.016) and all other sport categories (39.5 ± 19.1 kcal/kg LBM, n = 8, p = 0.037). Conclusions: The findings indicate this sample had a high prevalence of risk for low EA, at 47.2%. Only 19.4% of participants were at no risk, meaning ~80% of participants were at some degree of risk of experiencing low EA. Cyclists were at greater risk in this cohort of low EA, although why this occurred was unclear and is in need of further investigation. Future research should address whether the current female cut-points for low EA are appropriate for use in male populations.

Aronia juice consumption prior to half-marathon race can acutely affect platelet activation in recreational runners

Long-distance running, especially in non-professional runners, can increase cardiac arrest risk by enhancing platelet activation and aggregation. Polyphenols can exert cardioprotective effects by positively influencing platelet function. This study aimed to examine the acute effects of polyphenol-rich aronia juice consumption, before simulation of a half-marathon race, on platelet activation and aggregation with leukocytes in recreational runners. In this acute crossover study,10 healthy male runners (age 30.8 ± 2.3 years) consumed breakfast with 200 mL of aronia juice or 200 mL of placebo. They warmed-up and ran a simulated half-marathon race (21.1 km). Blood was collected at baseline, and at 15 min, 1 h, and 24 h after the run. All variables were analyzed with 4 (time) × 2 (group) ANOVA with repeated measures on both factors. Results revealed a significant effect of group on platelet activation parameters: P-selectin and GPIIb-IIIa expressions significantly decreased in the aronia group compared with the placebo group (F_[1,9] = 10.282, p = 0.011 and F_[1,9] = 7.860, p = 0.021, respectively). The effect of time was significant on both platelet aggregation markers: platelet-monocyte and platelet-neutrophil aggregates were significantly lower after the race (F_[3,7] = 4.227, p = 0.014 and F_[3,7] = 70.065, p = 0.000, respectively), with changes more pronounced in the later. All effects remained when platelets were exposed to an agonist. These results suggest that aronia consumption could counteract the half-marathon race-induced changes in platelet function. Novelty Aronia juice consumption significantly decreased the expression of platelet activation markers but did not affect platelet aggregation. The race itself did significantly reduce platelet-neutrophil aggregation. Aronia juice may serve as a supplement beverage for recreational runners to alleviate enhanced platelet reactivity caused by prolonged running.

Dose-dependent effect of caffeine supplementation on judo-specific performance and training activity: a randomized placebo-controlled crossover trial

Background

Caffeine (CAF) supplementation could have a positive impact on physical performance and sport abilities. Nevertheless, the CAF-induced, dose-dependent influence on discipline-specific performance and combat activity in combat sports have not been sufficiently investigated. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of single ingestion of 3, 6, or 9 mg/kg body weight of CAF and placebo (PLA) on judo-specific performance and sparring combat activities.

Methods

In a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over design, acute pre-exercise supplementation with CAF (3, 6, or 9 mg/kg body weight) and placebo PLA in 22 male highly-trained judoists was examined. The study protocol involved five separate testing sessions using the Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT) with heart rate monitoring, three judo sparring combats and evaluation of the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) using the Borg scale.

Results

Six and 9 mg/kg CAF improved SJFT performance, while 9 mg/kg increased combat activity. Three mg/kg CAF lacked any apparent positive ergogenic effect. Among athletes, who include CAF-containing products in their habitual diet (consumers), only 9 mg/kg CAF effectively enhanced SJFT performance, while in those who do not consume CAF-containing products at regular basis (non-consumers), the enhancing effect was achieved even at 6 mg/kg.

Conclusions

Regarding combat sports, higher (6–9 mg/kg) than currently recommended CAF dosages (3–6 mg/kg) are apparently more effective in terms of judo-specific performance. However, the ergogenic CAF effect is not only dose-dependent, but it is also related to customary CAF consumption.

Trial registration

Clinical Trials Gov, NCT03822663. Registered 28 January 2019 - Retrospectively registered

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12970-019-0305-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Isolated branched-chain amino acid intake and muscle protein synthesis in humans: a biochemical review

Alongside a proper diet, ergogenic aids with potential direct and/or indirect physical performance enhancing effects are sought after for improved adaptation to physical training. Nutritional ergogenics include diet composition changes and/or dietary supplementation. Branched-chain amino acids valine, leucine and isoleucine are widely popular among products with ergogenic claims. Their major marketing appeal derives from allegations that branched-chain amino acids intake combined with resistance physical exercise stimulates muscle protein synthesis. Evidence supporting the efficacy of branched-chain amino acids alone for muscle hypertrophy in humans is somewhat equivocal. This brief review describes physiological and biochemical mechanisms underpinning the effects of complete protein source and branched-chain amino acid intake on skeletal muscle growth in the postabsorptive and post-exercise state. Evidence in favor of or against potential anabolic effects of isolated branched-chain amino acid intake on muscle protein synthesis in humans is also examined.

The Effect of Beta-Alanine versus Alkaline Agent Supplementation Combined with Branched-Chain Amino Acids and Creatine Malate in Highly-Trained Sprinters and Endurance Athletes: A Randomized Double-Blind Crossover Study

The study aimed to verify the effect of intra- (beta-alanine—BA) versus extra- (alkaline agents—ALK) cellular buffering agent supplementation, combined with customarily used branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and creatine malate (TCM) treatment in natural training conditions. Thirty-one elite athletes (11 sprinters and 20 endurance athletes) participated in the study. Eight-week randomized double-blind, crossover, combined supplementation with BA-ALKpla_BCAA&TCM and ALK-BApla_BCAA&TCM was implemented. In the course of the experiment, body composition, aerobic capacity, and selected blood markers were assayed. After BA-ALKpla_BCAA&TCM supplementation, total fat-free mass increased in sprinters (p = 0.009). No other differences were found in body composition, respiratory parameters, aerobic capacity, blood lactate concentration, and hematological indices after BA-ALKpla_BCAA&TCM/ALK-BApla_BCAA&TCM supplementation. The maximum post-exercise blood ammonia (NH₃) concentration decreased in both groups after BA-ALKpla_BCAA&TCM supplementation (endurance, p = 0.002; sprint, p < 0.0001). Also, lower NH₃ concentrations were observed in endurance athletes in the post-exercise recovery period. The results of our study indicate that combined BCAA, TCM, and BA supplementation is more effective than combined BCAA, TCM and ALK supplementation for an increase in fat-free mass and exercise adaptation, but not for aerobic capacity improvement. Besides, it seems that specific exercise stimuli and the training status are key factors affecting exercise performance, even in athletes using efficient supplementation.

Comparison of ingesting a food bar containing whey protein and isomalto-oligosaccharides to carbohydrate on performance and recovery from an acute bout of resistance-exercise and sprint conditioning: an open label, randomized, counterbalanced, crossover pilot study

BACKGROUND

We previously reported that consuming a food bar (FB) containing whey protein and the plant fiber isomalto-oligosaccharides [IMO] had a lower glycemic (GI) but similar insulinemic response as a high GI carbohydrate. Therefore, we hypothesized that ingestion of this FB before, during, and following intense exercise would better maintain glucose homeostasis and performance while hastening recovery in comparison to the common practice of ingesting carbohydrate alone.

METHODS

Twelve resistance-trained males participated in an open label, randomized, counterbalanced, crossover trial with a 7-d washout period. Participants consumed a carbohydrate matched dextrose comparitor (CHO) or a FB containing 20 g of whey, 25 g of IMO, and 7 g of fat 30-min before, mid-way, and following intense exercise. Participants performed 11 resistance-exercises (3 sets of 10 repetitions at 70% of 1RM) followed by agility and sprint conditioning drills for time. Participants donated blood to assess catabolic and inflammatory markers, performed isokinetic strength tests, and rated perceptions of muscle soreness, hypoglycemia before, and following exercise and after 48 h of recovery. Data were analyzed using general linear models (GLM) for repeated measures and mean changes from baseline with 95% confidence intervals (CI) with a one-way analysis of variance. Data are reported as mean change from baseline with 95% CI.

RESULTS

GLM analysis demonstrated that blood glucose was significantly higher 30-min post-ingestion for CHO (3.1 [2.0, 4.3 mmol/L,] and FB (0.8 [0.2, 1.5, mmol/L, p = 0.001) while the post-exercise ratio of insulin to glucose was greater with FB (CHO 0.04 [0.00, 0.08], FB 0.11 [0.07, 0.15], p = 0.013, η² = 0.25). GLM analysis revealed no significant interaction effects between treatments in lifting volume of each resistance-exercise or total lifting volume. However, analysis of mean changes from baseline with 95% CI's revealed that leg press lifting volume (CHO -130.79 [- 235.02, - 26.55]; FB -7.94 [- 112.17, 96.30] kg, p = 0.09, η² = 0.12) and total lifting volume (CHO -198.26 [- 320.1, - 76.4], FB -81.7 [- 203.6, 40.1] kg, p = 0.175, η² = 0.08) from set 1 to 3 was significantly reduced for CHO, but not for the FB. No significant interaction effects were observed in ratings of muscle soreness. However, mean change analysis revealed that ratings of soreness of the distal vastus medialis significantly increased from baseline with CHO while being unchanged with FB (CHO 1.88 [0.60, 3.17]; FB 0.29 [- 0.99, 1.57] cm, p = 0.083, η² = 0.13). No significant GLM interaction or mean change analysis effects were seen between treatments in sprint performance, isokinetic strength, markers of catabolism, stress and sex hormones, or inflammatory markers.

CONCLUSION

Pilot study results provide some evidence that ingestion of this FB can positively affect glucose homeostasis, help maintain workout performance, and lessen perceptions of muscle soreness.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov, # NCT03704337 . Retrospectively registered 12, July 2018.

Pharmacological profiles of compounds in preworkout supplements ("boosters")

Preworkout supplements ("boosters") are used to enhance physical and mental performance during workouts. These products may contain various chemical substances with undefined pharmacological activity. We investigated whether substances that are contained in commercially available athletic multiple-ingredient preworkout supplements exert amphetamine-type activity at norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin transporters (NET, DAT, and SERT, respectively). We assessed the in vitro monoamine transporter inhibition potencies of the substances using human embryonic kidney 293 cells that expressed the human NET, DAT, and SERT. The phenethylamines β-phenethylamine, N-methylphenethylamine, β-methylphenethylamine, N-benzylphenethylamine, N-methyl-β-methylphenethylamine, and methylsynephrine inhibited the NET and less potently the DAT similarly to D-amphetamine. β-phenethylamine was the most potent, with IC₅₀ values of 0.05 and 1.8 μM at the NET and DAT, respectively. These IC₅₀ values were comparable to D-amphetamine (IC₅₀ = 0.09 and 1.3 μM, respectively). The alkylamines 1,3-dimethylbutylamine and 1,3-dimethylamylamine blocked the NET but not the DAT. Most of the phenethylamines interacted with trace amine-associated receptor 1, serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine-1A receptor, and adrenergic α_1A and α_2A receptors at submicromolar concentrations. None of the compounds blocked the SERT. In conclusion, products that are used by athletes may contain substances with mainly noradrenergic amphetamine-type properties.

Upper and lower thresholds of fat-free mass index in a large cohort of female collegiate athletes

Fat-free mass index (FFMI) is a height-adjusted metric of fat-free mass which has been suggested as a useful method of body composition assessment in athletic populations. The purpose of this study was to determine sport-specific FFMI values and the natural upper threshold of FFMI in female athletes. 372 female collegiate athletes (Mean±SD; 20.03±1.55 years, 167.55±7.50 cm, 69.46±13.04 kg, 24.18±5.48% bodyfat) underwent body composition assessment via dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. FFMI was adjusted to height via linear regression and sport-specific reference values were determined. Between-sport differences were identified using one-way ANOVA with Tukey post-hoc tests. Average FFMI was 18.82±2.08 kg/m²; height-adjusted values were not significantly different (p<0.05) than unadjusted values. FFMI in rugby athletes (20.09±2.23 kg/m²) was found to be significantly higher (p<0.05) than in gymnastics (18.62±1.12 kg/m²), ice hockey (17.96±1.04 kg/m²), lacrosse (18.58±1.84 kg/m²), swim & dive (18.16±1.67 kg/m²), and volleyball (18.04±1.13 kg/m²). FFMI in cross country (16.56±1.14 kg/m²) and synchronized swimming (17.27±1.47 kg/m²) was significantly lower (p<0.05) than in Olympic weightlifting (19.69±1.98 kg/m²), wrestling (19.15±2.47 kg/m²), and rugby. The upper threshold for FFMI in female athletes (97.5^th percentile) was 23.90 kg/m². These results can be used to guide personnel decisions and assist with long-term body composition, training, and nutritional goals.

Assessment of Dietary Under-Reporting in Italian College Team Sport Athletes

BACKGROUND

Nutrition is an important factor for sports performance and the assessment of dietary intakes in athletes can correct unhealthy eating habits. However, dietary assessment may be biased due to misreporting. The aim of our study was to investigate the occurrence of misreporting in a sample of collegiate team sport athletes.

METHODS

A total of 50 athletes participated. Each athlete filled in food records for seven days. Reported energy intake (EI) was considered in relation to the predicted basal metabolic rate (BMR) and expressed as the ratio EI/ BMR. All participants with EI/BMRestd ≤1.23 were classified as "low energy reporters" (LER), and those with an EI/BMRestd ratio >1.23 were classified as "adequate energy reporters" (AER).

RESULTS

According to cut-off values for under-reporting, 28 out of 50 athletes (56%) were classified as LER. The LER (16 M/12 F) had significantly higher BMI (23.17 ± 3.46 kg/m2 compared to 21.41 ± 1.91 kg/m2; p = 0.038) than the AER. The EI/kg fat free mass (FFM) was significantly lower in LER than the AER (33.34 ± 6.56 kcal/FFM compared to 48.51 ± 8.59 kcal/FFM, p < 0.0001). Nutrient intake was also significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that under-reporting of energy intake by collegiate team sport athletes may occur frequently and needs to be taken into consideration in the interpretation of nutrient intake.

The benefits of nutritional counselling for improving sport performance

BACKGROUND

It is well known that the synergy between physical activity and healthy eating habits is an important combination for the achievement of different objectives. However, recent studies in the literature focused mainly on the effect of this synergy on weight loss or different non communicable diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of healthy eating, based on the Mediterranean diet, on physical performance of kickboxers and runners.

METHODS

Forty athletes were recruited from the University Sports Center of Bergamo. Twenty participants practiced kickboxing, an High Energy Expenditure Rate sport, whereas twenty subjects practiced half marathon, a typical High Energy Expenditure Volume sport. Kickboxers and runners were randomly divided into two sub-groups of ten subjects each: one was the control group (CG) and one the nutritional counselling group (NCG), in which subjects were instructed to follow a nutritional counselling.

RESULTS

At the baseline, runners started with greater VO2max and lower resting metabolic rate compared to kickboxers. After three months of controlled diet and training, kickboxers in NCG improved their results in Counter Movement Jump (CMJ) Test (P=0.015) and squat (P=0.012). Moreover, athletes had a decrease in body fat percentage (P=0.008). Runners in NCG, had a significant VO2max (P=0.007) increase and a reduction in body fat percentage (P=0.002). They also showed an increase of squat (P=0.012) and CMJ test (P=0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Significant benefits were achieved in all groups of athletes, but results were maximized by training plus nutritional counselling.