Effectiveness of high-fat and high-carbohydrate diets on body composition and maximal strength after 15 weeks of resistance training

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare High Carbohydrates Low Fat (HCLF) and Low Carbohydrate High Fat (LCHF) diets in terms of changes in body composition and maximal strength.

PATIENTS/METHODS

The study involved 48 men aged 25 ​± ​2.5, divided into two groups, one of which (n ​= ​23) was following the LCHF diet and the other (n ​= ​25) the HCLF diet. Both groups performed the same resistance training protocol for 15 weeks. Maximal strength in squat, bench press and deadlift was assessed pre- and post-intervention. Measurements of selected body circumferences and tissue parameters were made using the multifunctional, multi-frequency, direct bioelectric impedance InBody 770 analyzer from InBody Co., Ltd (Cerritos, California, USA). The team with the necessary qualifications and experience in research performed all the measurements and maintained participants' oversight throughout the entire length of the study.

RESULTS

Both nutritional approaches were effective in terms of reducing body fat mass. The HCLF group achieved greater skeletal muscle hypertrophy. Significant decreases in body circumferences, especially in the abdominal area, were observed for both dietary approaches. Maximal strength significantly increased in the HCLF group and decreased in the LCHF group.

CONCLUSION

Holistic analysis of the results led to the conclusion that both dietary approaches may elicit positive adaptations in body composition. The two approaches constitute useful alternatives for both recreational exercisers and physique athletes with body composition goals.

Characteristics of somatic build and physical activity and evaluation of hand grip strength in patients with type 1 diabetes

Introduction: In order to avoid hypoglycaemia, individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes usually limit their physical activity, which might lead to changes in somatic build and in the level of muscle strength. The aim of the study was to define somatic build, hand grip strength and physical activity in patients diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

Materials and methods: The study included 24 patients with type 1 diabetes and 24 healthy individuals. Body build was assessed on the basis of 20 somatic features and indices. Somatic types were assessed using the Sheldon’s method modified by Heath-Carter. Hand grip strength was measured with hand grip dynamometer, while physical activity was evaluated by means of a questionnaire survey.

Results: The results obtained from female subjects showed insignificant intergroup differences concerning the measured features. Endomorphy was a predominant component among female somatotypes. Compared to the healthy controls, males with type 1 diabetes exhibited lower values of arm circumference (tensed), thigh circumference, ankle width and mesomorphy as well as hand grip strength (p<0.05). The diabetic patients preferred cycling while healthy people opted for combat sports.

Conclusions: Differences in somatic build, hand grip strength and physical activity between healthy individuals and patients diagnosed with type 1 diabetes were greater in the case of men than women. Compared to healthy individuals, diabetic men exhibited lower values of somatic features that are typical of mesomorphy and muscle strength. Both women and men diagnosed with type 1 diabetes preferred low-intensity and aerobic physical activity.

Relationships between kinesiotherapy methods used in rehabilitation and the course of lost function recovery following surgical treatment of cranio-cerebral trauma

INTRODUCTION AND AIM

This paper aims to outline the relationships between kinesiotherapy methods used in rehabilitation and the recovery of the patient's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), improvement of functional condition, regression of pareses and improvement of conscious state following surgical treatment of traumatic subdural haematomas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted on 84 patients treated surgically for traumatic subdural haematomas, divided into two groups. The key differentiating factor was the kinesiotherapy method used in rehabilitation. Patients were assessed using the International Scale of Muscle Weakness (ISMW), Barthel Index and modified Rankin Scale, while their conscious state was assessed using the Glasgow Coma Scale.

RESULTS

A significant improvement of the assessed features was observed in all patients. However, patients treated with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) and elements of the Bobath concept regained lost function significantly faster than patients treated with traditional kinesiotherapy. No significant differences were observed in the course of improvement of conscious state between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment using functional elements may significantly accelerate the return of the ability to perform ADLs, improvement in functional condition and regression of pareses in comparison with traditional kinesiotherapy.