Proceedings of the Fourteenth International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) Conference and Expo

Correspondence: David Bellar (dbellar@louisiana.edu)

Background

Recent studies have suggested that alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine (A-GPC) may be an effective ergogenic aid that can provide cognitive benefit. A-GPC has been shown to enhance acetylcholine levels and can cross the blood brain barrier. Increasing CNS acetylcholine can affect dopamine levels, which can in turn affect other hormones such as Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). The present study was designed to assess the efficacy of two doses of A-GPC in comparison to placebo for decreasing thyroid stimulating hormone, a signal of increased dopamine.

Methods

Forty-eight healthy, college aged males volunteered for the present study and underwent baseline assessment of fitness. Following this assessment participants were randomly assigned to groups consisting of 500 mg A-GPC, 250 mg A-GPC, or Placebo who reported back to the lab in the morning hours (0700) in a fasted state. Blood samples were collected 1 hour and 2 hours post dosing. Serum free choline and thyroid stimulating hormone were analyzed via commercially available ELISA assays.

Results

Serum free choline was found to be elevated in the two A-GPC groups as compared to placebo (132% and 59% respectively). Serum TSH was found to be significantly depressed in the 500 mg A-GPC group compared to other treatments (p < 0.04).

Conclusions

Based upon this evidence, and previous evidence regarding A-GPC, more study should be devoted to the potential neurological benefits associated with this supplement.

Acknowledgements

This study was funded in part by a research grant from Chemi Nutra, Austin Tx.

Correspondence: Troy M. Purdom (purdomtm@longwood.edu)

Background

It is well known that having a favorable body composition (less fat mass, more fat free mass) is ideal for sports performance applications. Fat mass does not contribute to force/power development and can impact performance negatively [1]. Body composition changes may occur as a result of short-term detraining, and therefore may alter anaerobic performance [2]. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of nine weeks of detraining on body composition and anaerobic performance.

Methods

Sixteen female collegiate soccer athletes (Mean ± SD: 19.3 ± 1.08 yrs; 62.17 ± 5.95 kg; 164.81 ± 5.9 cm; 21.46 ± 3.42%BF; 107.43 ± 9.5FFM(kg)) were assessed at two separate time blocks: after the competitive season and again after nine weeks of detraining. Each testing block included two testing days separated by 24 hours. Each subject arrived having refrained from food for four hours, caffeine for 12 hours and alcohol and exercise for 24 hours. Informed consent and demographic information were collected in addition to body composition using a two-component model (three-site skinfold analysis) prior to physical testing. Day one for each testing block consisted of a counter movement vertical jump (CMJ) and day two consisted of the 40-yard dash and the running anaerobic sprint test (RAST). Paired t-tests were used to evaluate statistical differences between testing blocks. Performance measures are reported in absolute values as watts (W) and relative power in watts per kg (W/kg). All values are expressed as mean ± SD.

Results

Statistical analysis revealed that nine weeks of detraining induced a significant decrease in both peak vertical power and average horizontal power. A 4.44% decrease in CMJ was reported (p = 0.003; pre 48.82 ± 5.73, post 46.59 ± 5.54 W/kg) and average horizontal RAST power decreased by 6.13% (p = 0.031; pre 343.26 ± 57.25, post 310.93 ± 28.68 W), respectively. No significant changes in %BF (p = 0.40) or FFM (kg) (p = 0.31) were observed. Peak horizontal power (40-yard dash) was not significantly different between testing blocks (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

While FFM did not change throughout the detraining period, peak vertical and average horizontal power decreased agreeing with previous literature [2]. This suggests that cellular changes are responsible for the reduction in power, not body composition. However, the lack of change in peak horizontal power warrants further inquiry. The results show that detraining may reduce anaerobic power despite the lack of changes in body composition.

References

1. Buskirk, ER. Mendez, J. Sports science and body composition analysis: emphasis on cell and muscle mass. Medicine Science in Sports and Exercise. 1984, 16(6): 584-595

2. Winters, KM. Snow, CM. Detraining reverses positive effects of exercise on the musculoskeletal system in premenopausal women. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research. 2000, 15: 2495-2503.

Correspondence: Jose Antonio (ja839@nova.edu)

Background

The popularity of pre workout supplements to help increase performance has increased in both recreational as well as professional athletes in the past few years. It is unclear whether caffeine alone or a combination of caffeine with other ingredients do indeed have an ergogenic effect. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the acute effects of consuming a pre-workout supplement on indices of muscular strength, endurance and mood states. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design was utilized in this investigation.

Methods

Fourteen moderate to highly-trained recreational athletes (7 female, 7 male) participated in this investigation (Table 3). Their body composition was assessed via the DEXA (Hologic Model Horizon W).

Subjects came to the lab twice with at least 7 days between testing sessions. The consumption of product or placebo was randomized. They arrived at the lab 3 hours fasted with no prior exercise that day. Subsequently, they consumed the supplement or placebo (mixed with 8-12 ounces of water) 30 minutes prior to testing. The pre-workout supplement (Athelite Nutrition Inc.) contained 15.62 grams per serving, 25 kcals, that consisted of a proprietary blend including caffeine (as green coffee bean extract), L-theanine, black pepper extract, micronized creatine monohydrate, CarnoSyn® beta-alanine, Huperzine A, N-Acetyl L-carnitine, Nitrosigine®), or placebo. The placebo was a similar tasting drink with an equal amount of caffeine. Participants’ mood was also assessed via a profile mood states questionnaire (POMS) 30 minutes after product or placebo was consumed. After taking the POMS questionnaire, subjects had their exercise performance assessed via the 1-RM bench press followed by bench press repetitions to failure at 60% of 1-RM with 30 seconds rest between sets (3 total sets).

Results

There were significant differences (p < 0.05) between the supplement and placebo for the number of repetitions to failure as well as total weight lifted (Table 4). However, there were no differences for any of the other parameters measured (Table 5).

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that the acute consumption of a pre-workout supplement can enhance muscular endurance; however, it has no effect on strength or mood states.

Acknowledgments

Correspondence: Daniel E. Newmire (dnewmire@unomaha.edu)

Background

The co-ingestion BCAA’s with a carbohydrate drink has shown to synergistically promote hyperinsulinemia and reduce blood glucose. Particularly, L-Leucine (LEU) directly and indirectly facilitates pancreatic insulin (INS) secretion through gut hormone (incretin) responses; however, L-Isoleucine (ISO) has not shown the same result. Though not fully understood, amino acids may independently stimulate release of gut (incretin) hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP). GLP-1 and GIP are suggested to be 50-70% responsible for regulating insulin secretion after oral glucose ingestion. However, it is unknown how LEU and ISO independently or synergistically stimulate incretin hormones. Therefore, the objective of the study was to determine the independent and combined effects of ISO and LEU on incretin (GLP-1, GIP) responses and subsequently their associations with glucose (GLU), C-peptide (CP), INS, and glucagon (GCG) concentrations in healthy, inactive adults.

Methods

12-healthy, inactive adults (Mean ± SEM; 6 M/F; age 27.4 ± 2.0 y; lean body mass (LBM) 48.6 ± 4.67 kg; body fat 34.1 ± 2.96%) completed 4-trials in a randomized, single-blinded fashion: A standardized ingestion to 0.3 g·kg^-1·LBM^-1; 12-17 g; 1) ISO; 2) LEU; 3) equal combination of ISO + LEU; and 4) placebo (PLA, 3.5 g inert stevia). Venous samples were taken at baseline, 6, 10, and 30 min for the analysis of dependent variables GIP_Total, GLP-1_Active, CP, INS, and GCG (quantified via MAGPIX) and GLU (YSI 2900). A 2-way (treatment x time) RMANOVA compared the incremental change (∆) and where appropriate, a Pearson’s r to express relationships for GLU, GIP_Total, GLP-1_Active, CP, INS, and GCG.

Results

Analysis (Mean ± SEM) revealed that each treatment reduced GLU by ∆ 3.8 mg/dl (main effect for treatment; p < 0.001) compared to PLA. INS and CP were not affected by any treatment. ISO + LEU, ISO, LEU increased GCG compared to PLA condition by ∆ 9 ng/l at 30 min (time x treatment interaction; p = 0.04). The incretin GLP-1_Active was unaffected by any treatment; however, ISO compared to LEU and PLA treatment increased peak GIP_Total by ∆ 3 pmol/l at 30 min (p = > 0.0002). No association was found between GIP_Total and INS during ISO treatment (r = 0.27, r ²  = 0.07, p = 0.42).

Conclusion

Overall, ISO and LEU induced a slight glucose reduction concurrent with a counter regulatory rise in GCG. Because we found no treatment effect by these amino acids on CP, INS, and GLP-1_Active concentrations, this data indicates that ISO and LEU may induce glucose uptake independent of insulin and GLP-1_Active responses. Additionally, no relationship was found between ISO induced GIP_Total and INS. This data support the concept that BCAA’s ISO and LEU may influence glucose uptake independent of glycemic hormones; however, this suggestion requires more rigorous investigation.

Acknowledgement

Participant compensation and supplemental treatments fabricated by Dymatize.

Correspondence: Neil A. Schwarz (neilschwarz@southalabama.edu)

Background

The purpose of this placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study was to determine the effects of acute oral ingestion of nutritional supplements containing either placebo or Bang® Pre-Workout Master Blaster^TM on exercise performance, serum hormone responses, and clinical safety markers in males.

Methods

Ten resistance-trained males participated in two exercise testing sessions consisting of the vertical jump (VJ), seated medicine ball throw (SMBT), and local muscular endurance tests for the bench press (BP) and leg extension (LE) exercises at 70% of one-repetition maximum. Participants consumed placebo (Fibersol-2) or Bang® approximately 30 minutes prior to performing each exercise session. Venous blood samples were obtained at baseline (BL), 30 minutes post-supplement (30PS), and 30 minutes post-exercise (30PX). Data were analyzed with paired t-tests or separate 2x3 (trial x time) within-within ANOVA (p < 0.05).

Results

No significant difference between trials was observed for SMBT distance or BP repetitions. Vertical jump (p < 0.01) and LE repetitions (p < 0.05) were significantly greater for the Bang® trial compared with placebo. A significant main effect for time was observed for serum cortisol (p = 0.02) and serum human growth hormone (HGH; p = 0.011) with no significant effect for trial or between trial and time. Serum cortisol was significantly decreased at 30PS compared with BL (p = 0.003). Serum HGH was significantly greater at 30PX compared with BL (p = 0.009) and 30PS (p = 0.014). A trend for HGH to be higher at 30PX for the Bang® trial compared with the placebo trial (p = 0.10) was noted. A statistically significant interaction between trial and time was observed for serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1; p = 0.044). There was a significant effect of time for the Bang® trial (p = .010). Serum IGF-1 was significantly increased at both 30PS (p = 0.004) and 30PX (p = 0.038) compared with BL for the Bang® trial. No effect of time for IGF-1 was observed for placebo. Clinical chemistry markers remained within normal clinical ranges for all variables. No differences in hemodynamics were observed between the placebo and Bang® trials.

Conclusions

Acute ingestion of Bang® Pre-Workout Master Blaster^TM increased lower-body power and endurance as measured by the vertical jump and leg extension repetition tests, respectively. Additionally, Bang® supplementation resulted in potentially favorable serum IGF-1 and HGH responses without adversely affecting clinical safety markers.

Acknowledgements

Vital Pharmaceuticals Inc. (VPX) provided the funding for this study.

Correspondence: Debasis Bagchi (debasis@cepham.com)

Background

Curculigo orchioides is an endangered medicinal plant used for diverse medicinal purposes including impotency, aphrodisiac, diuretic, tonic, jaundice, and skin ailments for centuries. Phytochemical investigations of rhizomes revealed the presence of a novel phenolic glycoside, curculigoside, triterpenoid, saponins, flavones, cellulose, hemicellulose, and calcium oxalate. We developed a novel extract of Curculigo orchioides (Blamus^TM, standardized to 30% curculigosides) and assessed its dose- and time-dependent efficacy (0, 10, 25 and 50 mg/kg body weight p.o.) in male rats.

Methods

We assessed the body weight, serum free and total testosterone levels in male rats (200-230 g; n = 6) over a period of 28 consecutive days. Moreover, extensive histopathological analyses were conducted on the seminiferous tubules, spermatogenesis, sperm cell morphology, Leydig cells and Sertoli cells.

Results

Blamus^TM didn’t cause any marked elevation in serum free testosterone levels at either10 or 25 mg/kg body weight doses, however, a 50 mg/kg body weight dose of showed a significant increase in serum free testosterone level (*p < 0.0001). However, no significant increases were observed in serum total testosterone levels at 0, 10, 25 or 50 mg/kg body weight doses of Blamus^TM. Extensive testicular histopathological analyses including investigations on the seminiferous tubules, spermatogenesis, sperm cell morphology, Leydig cells and Sertoli cells following treatment with either 0, 10, 25or 50 mg/kg body weight doses of Blamus^TM were conducted. Results demonstrated dose-dependent improvement in structural integrity. No significant changes were observed in serum SGOT, SGPT, BUN and creatinine levels following treatment with any of the above doses, which demonstrated the broad spectrum safety of Blamus^TM.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates that Blamus^TM may serve as a safe and novel, natural free testosterone booster and provide broad spectrum applications in sports nutrition, muscle building and exercise pathophysiology.

Correspondence: Gabriel J. Sanders (sandersg1@nku.edu)

Background

Adverse cardiovascular alterations prior to exercise may not be a wholesome indicator of a supplement aimed to enhance performance. Research is inconclusive regarding the impact of energy drinks on cardiovascular measures at rest and comparisons of weight status between energy drinks is absent in the current literature. Therefore, the purpose was to compare two market available energy drinks to a placebo drink and measure heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) at rest in obese and non-obese trained adults.

Methods

Twenty-eight (22.1 ± 1.3 years) participants completed the study. Groups were based on BMI, non-obese (n = 20, <30 BMI, 175.7 ± 8.9 cm, 74.1 ± 10.9 kg) and obese (n = 8, >30 BMI, 177.2 ± 14.6 cm, 111.4 ± 21.2 kg). Participants completed three randomized, resting conditions where participants blindly ingested an energy drink (16 oz. Monster Energy ®, 2 oz. 5-hour ENERGY®) or placebo (12 oz. Squirt) then resting in a seated position for one hour. HR and systolic and diastolic BP were measured three times, prior to ingestion of a drink, 30 minutes after and 60 minutes after ingestion. Heart rate and blood pressure were measured with a valid automated blood pressure cuff (OMRON Healthcare INC, Lake Forest, Illinois).

Results

A repeated measures ANOVA revealed there was no significant effect of BMI on HR, systolic and diastolic BP (P ≥ 0.111). However, there was a significant (P ≤ 0.05) time * condition interaction for HR and systolic BP. Post hoc analysis revealed there was a significant (P ≤ 0.05) increase from pre to 60 minutes post ingestion for HR and systolic BP for both energy drinks but not placebo (Placebo HR Pre 70.1 ± 2.0 bpm - Post 68.8 ± 1.9 bpm; Monster HR Pre 65.3 ± 2.2 bpm - Post 72.4 ± 2.2 bpm; 5-hour HR Pre 65.8 ± 1.8 bpm - Post 69.6 ± 1.9 bpm) (Placebo Systolic Pre 117.3 ± 1.4 mmHg - Post 116.5 ± 1.9 mmHg; Monster Systolic Pre 114.5 ± 1.6 mmHg - Post 121.3 ± 1.6 mmHg; 5-hour Systolic Pre 113.8 ± 1.4 mmHg - Post 119.8 ± 2.0 mmHg). Moreover, there was a significant difference (P ≤ 0.05) in systolic BP between placebo and both energy drinks at 60 minutes with no difference (P = 0.393) between the energy drinks at 60 minutes. There were no main or interaction effects of diastolic BP (P ≥ 0.290).

Conclusions

Energy drinks, and not placebo, increased resting HR and systolic BP after 60 minutes of rest. While there was no difference between the two energy drinks at any time point, both increased systolic BP more than placebo after 60 minutes. Further, BMI status does not appear to influence resting cardiovascular responses to energy drink ingestion. Additional research should assess if energy drinks hamper time to exhaustion biking or running exercise, regardless of BMI.

Acknowledgments

This study was funded by the Kentucky Biomedical Research Infrastructure Network (KBRIN) Grant Number 4001095.

Correspondence: Jason Cholewa (jcholewa@coastal.edu)

Background

There is limited research examining chronic (>6 weeks) betaine supplementation in conjunction with resistance training, and currently no research examining the effects of chronic betaine supplementation on changes in muscle growth and body composition in females. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 9 weeks of betaine supplementation on muscle growth and body composition in college aged females.

Methods

Young women without prior resistance training experience were recruited for this study. Subjects (N=23; 21.0±1.4 years, 165.9±6.4 cm, 68.6±11.8 kg, 32.7±7.6% body fat) were pair-matched based on body composition and squat strength and then randomly assigned to a placebo (n=12) or a betaine (2.5 g/day, BetaPower®, Finnfeeds Oy, Finland; n=11) group in a double-blind fashion. Training was divided into two lower and one upper body training sessions per week and was performed on non-consecutive days for two 4 week blocks with 1 week of active rest between blocks. Body composition testing (BodPod) was completed pre- and post-study. Thickness of the right rectus femoris was measured using B-mode ultrasound (Chison). Statistical analyses were performed using separate two-way repeated measures ANOVA for each criterion variable with an alpha level of p ≤ .05.

Results

There was a significant main effect for time (pre vs. post) for body mass (68.6+11.8 vs. 69.5+12 kg). A significant group x time interaction was found for BF%: BF% decreased significantly more in the betaine group (-3.3+1.9%) compared to placebo (1.7+1.6%). A significant group x time interaction was found for FM: FM decreased significantly more in the betaine group (-2.0+1.1 kg) compared to the placebo group (-.78+1.3 kg). A significant main effect of time was found for FFM (45.4+6.1 vs. 47.9+5.9 kg). A main effect of time was found for MTH (2.97+.54 vs. 3.04+.53 cm). Effect sizes (Cohen’s d) favored betaine compared to placebo for BF% (-.45 vs. -.22), FM (-.22 vs. -.08), and FFM (.48 vs. .31), but not MTH (.26 vs. .24).

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that 9 weeks of betaine supplementation improves body composition by reducing body fat percentage, fat mass, and tended to increase lean body mass in untrained collegiate females. Potential mechanisms for fat reductions and lean mass increases that have been reported in animal models, but require translation to humans, include the suppression of lipogenic (FAS, LPL, FABP) mRNA expression and enzymatic activity, and enhanced IGF-1 signaling pathway, respectively.

Acknowledgements

DuPont Nutrition and Health provided the betaine for this study.

Correspondence: Jason Cholewa (jcholewa@coastal.edu)

Background

Betaine has been previously shown to enhance force output in men in short-term (2 week) studies. Cholewa et al. (2013) reported increases in lean mass and a trend for greater vertical jump improvements following 6 weeks of betaine supplementation in resistance trained men. There is limited research examining chronic (>6 weeks) betaine supplementation on performance, and currently no research examining the effects of betaine on strength and power performance in females. This study investigated the effects of 9 weeks of betaine supplementation on performance in untrained college aged females.

Methods

Young women without prior resistance training experience were recruited for this study. Subjects (N=23; 21.0±1.4 years, 165.9±6.4 cm, 68.6±11.8 kg, 32.7±7.6% body fat) were pair-matched based on body composition and squat strength and then randomly assigned to a placebo (n=12) or a betaine (2.5 g/day, BetaPower®, Finnfeeds Oy, Finland; n=11) group in a double-blind fashion. Training was divided into two lower and one upper body training sessions per week and was performed on non-consecutive days for two 4 week blocks with 1 week of active rest between blocks. Performance testing was conducted pre- and post-training to measure vertical jump, back squat 1RM, and bench press 1RM. Subjects were instructed not to engage in additional exercise nor change their dietary habits during the study. Statistical analyses were performed utilizing separate two-way repeated measures ANOVA for each criterion variable with an alpha level p ≤ 0.05.

Results

There were no significant differences between groups for any variables at baseline. There were no significant group x time interactions for any variable assessed. Significant main effects of time (pre vs. post) were found for vertical jump (39.7±6.2 vs. 44.4±7.0 cm), 1 RM back squat (60.1±16.4 vs. 78.2±17.0 kg), and 1 RM bench press (34.9±7.2 vs. 39.0±8.0 kg). Effect sizes (Cohen’s d) were similar (betaine vs. placebo) between groups for vertical jump (.79 vs. .75), slightly favored betaine for 1RM back squat (1.19 vs. 1.01), and slightly favored placebo for 1 RM bench press (.46 vs. 69).

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that nine weeks of betaine supplementation does not enhance nor hinder strength and power adaptations during periodized resistance training in previously untrained collegiate females. Differences in supplementation length (2 weeks vs. 9 weeks) or differences in methylation metabolism between genders may explain the discrepancy between the results of this study and previous studies conducted in males.

Acknowledgements

DuPont Nutrition and Health provided the betaine for this study.

Correspondence: Darryn S. Willoughby (darryn_willoughby@baylor.edu)

Background

Supplementation of L-citrulline combined with glutathione (GSH) in response to a single bout of resistance exercise has been shown to increase plasma nitric oxide metabolites (NOx) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which may play a role in muscle protein synthesis. As a result, in response to resistance training (RT) these responses may establish a role for L-citrulline + GSH to serve as an ergogenic aid.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the study was to determine the effects of an 8-week RT program in conjunction with L-citrulline + GSH, L-citrulline-malate, or placebo supplementation on body composition and muscle performance. The secondary purpose was to assess the safety of such supplementation protocol by assessing whole blood and serum clinical chemistry markers.

Methods

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, 75 resistance-trained males were randomly assigned to ingest 2 g/day of L-citrulline + 200 mg/day of GSH (CIT+GSH), 2 g/day of L-citrulline-malate (CIT), or 2 g/day of cellulose placebo (PLC) daily while also participating in 8 weeks of RT. Participants completed three testing sessions where body composition and muscle performance were assessed before and after 4 and 8 weeks of RT and supplementation. Venous blood samples were obtained before and after 8 weeks.

Results

Neither RT nor supplementation had any significant effects on total body mass, total body water, fat mass, muscular strength and endurance, or any of the blood clinical chemistry variables (p > 0.05). However, lean mass increased in both GSH+CIT and CIT compared to PLC, but the increase for GSH+CIT was significantly greater from only PLC after 4 weeks (p < 0.05); however, no further increase existed after 8 weeks (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The supplementation of L-citrulline with GSH during resistance training increases lean mass compared to placebo in resistance-trained males.

Acknowledgments

This study was supported by an independent research grant from KYOWA HAKKO BIO CO, LTD., awarded to Baylor University. Dr. Willoughby’s attendance at the conference is being sponsored by KYOWA. Also, Dr. Morita is an employee of KYOWA but he also served as a valuable contributor to the study, and is included as a co-author.

Correspondence: Majid S. Koozehchian (majidk@tamu.edu)

Background

The purpose of this study was to examine the long-term effects of ingesting L-Carnitine supplement on exercise performance and blood lactate levels.

Method

In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind design, 35 male participants (age = 25 ± 2 y; stature = 171 ± 6 cm; body mass = 79.8 ± 8.9 kg; percent body fat = 16.1 ± 5.53%; Control [CON] n = 12, Placebo [PLA] n = 11, L-carnitine [LCR] n = 12) participated in the study. Primary outcomes were total body strength performance, anaerobic performance, and pre- and post-exercise (minutes three, fifteen, and thirty) blood lactate (BL) levels which were measured at baseline and at weeks 3, 6, and 9. All participants were asked to maintain their normal dietary intake during the study period. Participants in both PLA and LCR groups were required to follow a specific resistance training program (4 d/wk, upper body/lower body split) as well as oral ingestion of either PLA or LCR (2 g/day^-1) for a 9-wk period, while the CON group did not receive any intervention. Data were analyzed by GLM and presented as mean (SD) or change (95% CI).

Results

We observed a significant increase in bench press lifting volume (LV) at wk-6 (139 kg, 95% CI 49.1, 230) and wk-9 (238 kg, 95% CI, 132, 343) for LCR. There was a significant improvement in leg press LV at wk-6 (1,483 kg, 95% CI, 543, 2,422) and wk-9 (2,683 kg, 95% CI, 1,568, 3,797) for LCR. The percent change from baseline in LV bench press, leg press, and total strength for LCR was 27.5%, 30.2%, and 15.0% respectively. The significant increase in Wingate mean power (63.4 W, 95% CI 30.5, 96.3) and peak power (239 W/kg, 95% CI 104, 374) was seen at wk-9 for LCR. The percent change from baseline in Wingate mean power and peak power for LCR was 12.8% and 14.4% respectively. The significant BL reduction at wk-9 in 3-min post-exercise (-1.84 mmol/l, 95% CI -2.95, -0.73), 15-min post-exercise (-1.60 mmol/l, 95% CI -2.63, -0.57), and 30-min post-exercise (-0.64 mmol/l, 95% CI, -1.07, -0.21) was observed only in LCR. The percent change from baseline in BL at minutes three, fifteen, and thirty post-exercise for LCR was -17.2%, -14.8%, and -13.6% respectively.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that LCR supplementation at the dose of 2 g/day^-1 increases muscle strength, improves anaerobic performance, and attenuates the blood lactate response to resistance training.

Correspondence: Majid S. Koozehchian (majidk@tamu.edu)

Background

To study the impact of L-carnitine supplementation on selected exercise-induced oxidative stress markers.

Method

Thirty-five male subjects (age = 25 ± 2 y; stature = 171 ± 6 cm; body mass = 79.8 ± 8.9 kg; percent body fat = 16.1 ± 5.53%; Control [CON] n = 12, Placebo [PLA] n = 11, L-carnitine [LCR] n = 12) took part in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Oxidative stress markers including total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis alpha (TNF-α) which were measured at baseline and at weeks 3, 6, and 9. Subjects were required to keep their normal diet throughout the study. Participants in PLA and LCR groups followed a designed resistance training program (4 d/wk, upper body/lower body split) and the ingestion of either PLA or LCR (2 g/day^-1) for 9 weeks, whereas the CON group received no intervention. All data were then analyzed by GLM and reported as mean (SD) or change (95% CI).

Results

There was a statistically significant increase in TAC at wk-9 in LCR (0.18 mmol/L, 95% CI, 0.07, 0.28). A prominent elevation was observed in serum GPx at wk-9 in LCR (1.75 U/ml, 95% CI, 0.61, 2.90). In addition, there was a decrease in serum IL-6 at wk-9 in LCR (-0.53 pg/mL, 95% CI, -1.00, -0.06). The percent change from baseline in serum TAC was increased only in LCR (11.5%), but not in PLA (-0.02%), or CON (-1.94%). There was a decrease in percent change from baseline in serum MDA only in LCR (-31.1%), but not in CON (14.5%). An increase was seen in serum GPx only in LCR (17.4%), nut not in PLA (-3.26).

Conclusion

This study indicates that daily consumption of LCR (2 g/day^-1) improves total antioxidant capacity, while it attenuates exercise-induced oxidative stress makers in resistance-trained males.

Correspondence: M. Travis Byrd (mark.travis.byrd@uky.edu)

Background

The very short-term resistance training (VST) model, utilizing only 2-3 training sessions, has been shown to increase muscle strength for isometric and isokinetic modalities. This model has been used to examine early phase skeletal muscle, neural, and performance adaptations as well as the efficacy of creatine supplementation to increase strength. Thus, this training model has potential implications for examining acute changes in strength and power from nutritional interventions. No previous studies, however, have applied the VST model to dynamic constant external resistance (DCER) training. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effect of an upper body DCER exercise (barbell bench press [BP]), using the VST model on strength and barbell velocity.

Methods

Ten (5 females, 5 males) subjects (mean ± SD age: 21.4 ± 2.8 yrs; height: 1.75 ± 0.12 m; body mass: 83 ± 8.8 kg) with no resistance training experience within the last three months completed a familiarization visit, two pre-test visits (pre-test 1 and pre-test 2), three training visits, and one post-test visit. For pre-test 1 and pre-test 2, the subject’s 1 repetition maximum (1RM) for the BP was measured as well as the mean (BP_MV) and peak (BP_PV) barbell velocities from the BP 1RM. The mean (BT_MV) and peak (BT_PV) velocities were also determined from the barbell bench press throw (BT) test, utilizing 35% of the subject’s BP 1RM as resistance. The three training visits consisted of 5 sets of 6 repetitions, at 65% of the subject’s 1RM, with the concentric phase of the BP performed at max barbell velocity. The post-test followed the same procedures as the two pre-test visits. Statistical analyses included one-way repeated measures ANOVAs and paired samples t-tests (alpha level of p≤0.05). The reliability of each variable from pre-test 1 to pre-test 2 was examined using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and standard error of the measurement (SEM).

Results

Table 6 shows the mean (±SD) values for pre-test 1, pre-test 2, and post-test for 1RM, BP_MV, BP_PV, BT_MV, BT_PV, as well as the ICC and SEM values for pre-test 1 to pre-test 2.

Conclusion

Correspondence: Kurt J. Sollanek (sollanek@sonoma.edu)

Background

Beverage retention is affected by many factors (e.g., osmolality, electrolytes, etc.). The “Beverage Hydration Index” (BHI) was created to assess the degree to which beverages “hydrate”, by measuring fluid retention after ingesting a 1 liter bolus and comparing it to water. Drinks with carbohydrates and electrolytes score higher on the BHI due to glucose-sodium cotransport at the gut and osmolality approaching isotonicity with blood. Recently, a hypotonic rehydration beverage (enterade®) was developed to take advantage of amino acid-sodium cotransport, thus obviating the need for carbohydrate. The purpose of this investigation was to assess BHI of enterade® in comparison to a carbohydrate-containing sports drink and an oral rehydration solution (ORS).

Methods

In a repeated-measures design, forty study participants (males, n=17; females, n=23), age (mean±SD): males 19.7±0.7 y; females 20.3±0.9 y, BMI: males 23.7±2.8; females 22.5±2.7, were studied in a euhydrated state (first morning void USG < 1.025) after an overnight fast. They emptied their bladders, recorded their body mass and then ingested 1 L of fluid over 30 minutes (4 x 250 mL boluses every 7.5 minutes). The beverages, with corresponding osmolalities and kcal content, were as follows: distilled water (~0 mmol/kg; kcals/L), enterade® (195 mmol/kg; 21 kcals/L), ORS (270 mmol/kg; 105 kcals/L) and a sports drink (330 mmol/kg; 237 kcals/m). Each trial was separated by ~1 week. Urine output was collected and measured immediately, and each hour following the first collection for 2 hours, following fluid ingestion. Individual hour cumulative urine mass and BHI were compared by repeated measures one-way ANOVA with a Dunnett’s multiple comparison test to determine which drinks differed from water (P<0.05).

Results

Mean (±SD) total urine mass losses over 2 hours for enterade® (1013±288 g) and the ORS (959±234 g) were significantly less than water (1118±242 g; P<0.05) while the sports drink (1075±293 g; P>0.05) was not. The calculated BHI of enterade® (1.15±0.28) and the ORS (1.21±0.28) were greater than water (1.0±0.0; P<0.05) while the sports drink (1.09±0.26; P>0.05) was not.

Conclusions

Based upon these data, enterade® and a traditional ORS are superior to water to optimize rehydration, while sports drink was not. Importantly, the high BHI for enterade® was achieved without carbohydrate, making it a low-calorie alternative for effective rehydration.

Acknowledgements

This work was supported by Entrinsic Health Solutions, Inc. Authors’ views not official U.S. Army or DoD policy; citations of commercial products are not an endorsement by the DoD.

Correspondence: Abbie E. Smith-Ryan (abbsmith@email.unc.edu)

Background

Over two-thirds of the US population is considered overweight/obese and at an increased risk for various metabolic diseases. Bariatric surgery has emerged as an effective and sustainable weight loss option, resulting in significant loss of fat mass (FM). However, substantial decreases in fat free mass (FFM) and resting metabolic rate (RMR) are also common, increasing chances of weight regain. Increased consumption of dietary protein has been shown to attenuate losses in FFM during weight loss, which can help maintain RMR. It is currently recommended that bariatric surgery patients consume at least 60 g of protein per day, yet previous research suggests that many bariatric patients have insufficient protein intake following surgery. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of daily protein supplementation on changes in body composition and RMR following bariatric surgery.

Methods

A pilot sample of ten bariatric surgery patients (Mean ± SD; age=43.1±11.1 yrs; BMI=55.0±15.1 kg·m^-2; body fat percentage [%BF]=43.2±6.3%) from an ongoing, randomized, controlled intervention, completed two visits: one prior to surgery and another approximately three weeks post-surgery. Multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy was used to evaluate FM, FFM, %BF, and total body water (TBW). Portable indirect calorimetry was used to measure RMR. Patients were randomly assigned to either protein supplementation (PRO; n=5), consuming provided protein shakes for three weeks, or standard of care (SOC; n=5), following physician-nutritionist team recommendations.

Results

Changes between treatment groups were not significantly different (p>0.05), but across the entire group there were significant decreases in weight (Mean change [Δ] ± SD= -10.1±6.5 kg), FFM (Δ= -8.0±6.0 kg), and TBW (Δ= -5.2±3.7 L) (p<0.05) three-weeks post-surgery; there were no significant changes in %BF (Δ= 1.4±3.1%), FM (Δ= -2.1±5.3 kg), or RMR (Δ= -292.7±582.2 kcal·d^-1) (p>0.05). Although non-significant, RMR decreased less with PRO (Δ= -166.4±576.8 kcal·d^-1) than with SOC (Δ= -419.0±624.6 kcal·d^-1).

Conclusion

In as little as three weeks following bariatric surgery, there were significant decreases in body weight, primarily associated with losses in FFM, specifically, loss of body water. Although changes in body composition and metabolic rate were not significantly different between treatment groups, the SOC group had a greater decrease in RMR compared to the PRO group. Although this is a small pilot sample, results suggest that protein supplementation following bariatric surgery has the potential to help prevent decreases in RMR that might otherwise lead to future weight regain.

Acknowledgements

This project was supported by Premier Nutrition Inc.

Correspondence: Michael Corcoran (corcoranm@merrimack.edu)

Background

The purpose of this experimental, randomized cross-over study was to determine whether tailored hydration plans improve athletic performance in collegiate athletes during hard training sessions. The rationale for this study is based on previous research, which indicates that athletes commonly consume insufficient fluid and electrolytes before, during, and after training sessions. Athletes who engage in frequent rigorous and prolonged training sessions, may require hydration plans tailored to their individual physiology to improve their performance.

Methods

Fifteen varsity student athletes from Merrimack College aged 20 ±0.85 years were recruited. Athletes were eligible to participate if they were injury free and could exercise at ≥75% of their maximum heart rate for at least 45 minutes. Informed consent was obtained from the athletes, coaches and athletic training staff and all methods were approved by the college institutional review board. After completing a questionnaire assessing hydration knowledge, each athlete underwent an assessment of their sweat rate through participating in a high intensity training bout lasting at least 45 minutes. Bodyweight loss was determined and adjusted for fluid consumption during training. Athletes were randomized to a prescription hydration plan (PHP) or instructed to follow their normal hydration habits (NHP) during training. The PHP was developed by assessing sodium loss through sweat using the Precision Hydration Sweat Analysis software. A hydration plan was recommended to each participant based off of the results of their individual sweat composition and sweat rate. Reaction time using Neurotracker technology and lower body power through standing long jumps were assessed before and immediately after an intense training session where participants in both groups exercised at ≥75% of their max heart rates for at least 45 minutes. During training sessions, heart rate was monitored remotely by Zephyr technology to gauge exertion level and recovery. After a washout period of 7 days, the PHP group repeated the training bout with their normal hydration routine, while the NHP group completed the protocol following their PHP plan.

Results

Compared with following their NHP, participants following their PHP jumped 2.13 ± 3.15 inches farther (P<0.05), tracked objects 0.33 ± 0.33 meters per second quicker (P<0.05) and experienced a faster drop in heart rate (3.0 bpm) five minutes post practice.

Conclusion

A tailored hydration plan, based on fluid and sodium loss, mitigated the decline in performance observed during intense practices of 45 minutes or longer in duration and has the potential to significantly improve athletic performance.

Acknowledgements

We are grateful to the athletic care team and coaches for providing assistance with recruitment for this study and ensuring the safety and welfare of these athletes while engaging in these training sessions. We also are grateful to the athlete participants themselves for their willingness to volunteer.

Correspondence: Douglas Kalman (douglas.kalman@qps.com)

Background

Gherkin extract, a type of cucumber, is a pure botanical extract that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties in observational studies in humans. The purpose of the study was to determine the effects of a proprietary cucumber extract on [active test product 150 mg Gherkin (Cucumis sativus L.)] known in the US as Cuvitus™ (known in Europe as Actido^®): perceived levels of muscle soreness/discomfort after exercise; markers of inflammation; exercise performance, and exercise performance maintenance.

Methods

In a randomized double blind placebo design twenty-four healthy male subjects were randomly assigned to take either placebo or 1 capsule in the morning and 1 capsule in the evening (150 mg each) of Cuvitus for 6 days prior to attending their first of two exercise sessions. Prior to each exercise session subjects were given the Visual Analog Pain/Discomfort Scale (VAS), vital signs and blood was drawn and analyzed for TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-10, IL-1 beta. Subjects then received Cuvitus or placebo 1 hour before a leg extension exercise designed to induce muscular soreness, cellular damage and to assess performance. Tests and blood draw were repeated one hour post exercise. Subjects returned 7 days later to repeat the exercise session.

Results

There were significant (p<.05) changes in TNF alpha within groups for both placebo and control, but no significant between group differences. There were significant improvements and enhanced recovery of IL-6 within group for each group with improvements trending toward being significantly greater in the treatment group compared to placebo (p=0.0581). There were significant changes in IL-10 within each group. However the acute recovery was significantly better in the treatment group as compared to placebo for the 1-2 hours post (p< 0.0423). The rise in IL-1 beta trended towards being significantly greater in the placebo compared to the treatment (p=0.058). DOMS was significantly greater post exercise compared to pre-exercise in both groups. The treatment resulted in a 6.2 times improvement in exercise performance over placebo, which trended toward a significantly greater gains in the treatment group compared to placebo.

Conclusion

Taking Cuvitus 150 mg twice a day for 2 weeks lead to better performance when compared to Placebo as well as improvements in anti-inflammatory and immune supportive markers.

Disclosures

QPS, a Contract Research Organization received a research grant from XSTO Solutions to execute this clinical trial.

Correspondence: Darryn S. Willoughby (darryn_willoughby@baylor.edu)

Background

Due to the supposed cyto-protective effects of estradiol (estrogen), females are thought to be less predisposed to exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) than males, but may be more prone to muscle damage during the low estrogen point in their 28-day cycle (follicular phase) compared to their high estrogen point (luteal phase). It has also been theorized that estradiol may have the functional capacity to act as a membrane stabilizer, thereby attenuating release of muscle damage markers post-exercise. Fish oil supplementation has also been suggested to be important for cyto-protection due to its anti-oxidant potential for significantly decreasing markers of muscle damage. The anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties of omega-3 fatty acids has been hypothesized to help counteract the inflammatory state associated with EIMD.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare two phases of the menstrual cycle to determine whether the difference in estradiol levels, as well as determine if fish oil supplementation, would attenuate EIMD following a bout of eccentric exercise.

Methods

In this double-blind study, 22 physically-active females were randomly assigned to ingest either 6 grams of fish oil or a placebo daily for 21 days. Participants underwent an eccentric exercise bout of the knee extensors on two occasions, during the mid-follicular (MF) phase (day 6) and mid-luteal (ML) phase (day 21) of the 28-day menstrual cycle. Prior to (PRE), at 6 (6HRPOST), and 24 hours post-exercise (24HRPOST) for each session, participants’ muscle strength was assessed, and venous blood samples and muscle biopsies were obtained. Data were analyzed utilizing a 2 x 2 x 3 repeated measures MANOVA for each criterion variable (p ≤ .05). Further analysis of the main effects for Test was performed by separate ANOVAs.

Results

Delayed onset muscle soreness was significantly greater at the 6HRPOST and 24HRPOST time points compared to the PRE (p < .0001). Superoxide dismutase, tumor necrosis factor-α, and nuclear factor-κB p65 concentrations were all significantly higher at the MF phase compared to the ML phase (p < .001, p = .05, p = .04, respectively). There were no statistically significant differences observed for other criterion variables.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate that estradiol, but not fish oil supplementation, may exert a cyto-protective effect on the sarcolemma, thereby protecting skeletal muscle from EIMD. The results further suggest that higher levels of estradiol may even provide additional protection against EIMD during the ML phase of the female menstrual cycle.

Correspondence: Steffen Oesser

Background

Several investigations have shown that the combination of resistance exercise and protein supplementation increases fat free mass (FFM) and muscle strength, and could also reduce fat mass (FM). Although the concept of protein supplementation is generally accepted, the optimal type and amount of protein is still under discussion. The efficacy of collagen peptide intake in improving the body composition was recently demonstrated in an RCT on sarcopenic men [1]. Due to their excellent bioavailability and positive impact on connective tissue metabolism [2], bioactive collagen peptides (BCP) might be interesting as a supplement in sports nutrition.

Materials and methods

The effect of post-exercise supplementation of specific BCP (BODYBALANCE®) on FFM and FM was tested on 167 men aged from 30 to 60. The study participants underwent 60 minutes of resistance training three times weekly and were treated with 15 g BCP or a placebo for 12 weeks. In addition, a daily BCP dosage of 10 g and 20 g was tested. Changes in FFM and FM were measured by DEXA scans at the beginning of the study and after 12 weeks. Differences within the groups were analyzed with a Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test, and changes between the study groups were tested using the Mann-Whitney U-test.

Results

The results revealed a significant (p<0.05) increase in FFM after BCP supplementation of 15 g/day compared to placebo. FFM gain was more than 80% higher than in individuals who only did the training. In addition, FM was significantly (p<0.05) reduced after BCP supplementation by 1.8 kg compared to placebo. A daily dosage of 10 g and 20 g BCP intake also led to a pronounced statistically significant (p<0.05) FFM increase and FM reduction respectively compared to the baseline data. Although no significant differences between the study groups could be determined, the effect size (Cohen’s d) clearly indicated a dose-dependent effect. For FFM changes, the effect size increased from d=0.380 for 10 g BCP to d=0.433 for 15 g BCP, and d=0.510 for 20 g BCP intake. The effect size for FM loss increased concurrently from d=0.402 (10 g BCB) to d=0.459 (20 g BCP).

Conclusions

The results show that BCP supplementation combined with resistance training had a positive effect on body composition, as indicated by an increased FFM and a more pronounced FM reduction. On the basis on these results, BCP appear to offer an interesting supplement for optimized sports nutrition. The current results suggest an optimal dosage of 15 g per day.

Acknowledgements

The studies were conducted with the approval of the Ethics Committee of the Medical Faculty of the University of Freiburg. All participants gave written informed consent.

Trial registration

The RCT is registered in the German Clinical Trial Register with its ID-No. DRKS00008925.

References

1. Cermak NM, Res PT, de Groot LCPGM, et al. (2012) Am J Clin Nutr 96,1454–64.

2. Zdzieblik D, Oesser S, Baumstark MW et al. K (2015) Br J Nutr 114 1237–45.

Correspondence: Bridget A. McFadden

Background

Resistance and endurance exercise elicit unique acute physiological responses, which lead to chronic adaptations depending on an individual’s training background. Fuel utilization as it relates to the metabolism of ketone bodies as an alternative or complementary fuel source to glucose is one such response. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of resistance or endurance exercise on glucose metabolism and ketone body production in differentially trained males and females.

Methods

Subjects (n=40) were equally distributed into one of 4 groups (n=10) based on sex (Age_M=24±4y, Weight_M= 72.8±7.8 kg, %BF_M=12.8±5.7%; Age_F=22±2y, Weight_F=61.5±7.2 kg, %BF_F= 23.3±4.8%) and training history (endurance-trained [END] or resistance-trained [RES]). All subjects engaged in 45-min aerobic (AE) or weight-training (WT) exercise bouts which were performed on separate days. Time of day and pre-exercise nutrition were controlled for each participant. Serum was collected pre, 0 and 60-min post-exercise (T0, T1 & T2), and analyzed via UHPLC/MS using a metabolomics panel by Metabolon for identification of glucose [glu], pyruvate [pyr], lactate [lac], acetoacetate [AcAc] and 3-hydroxybutyrate [BHBA]. RM-ANOVA’s were conducted on log-transformed-median-scaled outputs with significance set at P<0.05. Heat-maps and fold-of changes were generated from the metabolomics response.

Results

[Glu] increased (1.23±0.09-fold; P<0.05) at T1 before returning to baseline at T2 in all conditions except END-WT-females and RES-AE-males, in which no changes from baseline were observed. [Pyr] and [lac] followed the same pattern across all conditions: roughly a 3-fold (3.70±0.86; P<0.05) increase at T1 followed by a modest decline (0.43±0.04-fold; P<0.05) by T2. Ketones presented a clear differential response to training background and sex. During all WT-conditions, ketones remained unchanged from baseline regardless of sex or training status. Changes were only observed during AE-conditions. Across females performing AE, ketones increased (2.74±0.46-fold; P<0.05) from T0–T1 and remained elevated. In RES-males performing AE, ketones increased (3.72±0.04-fold; P<0.05) and remained elevated at T2; however, END-males saw no change in ketones from T0-T2 during AE.

Conclusion

It appears WT failed to elicit changes in ketone mobilization from baseline. Ketones had a consistent rise following AE and remained elevated 60-min post, except for male-END-AE, where both AcAc and BHBA returned to baseline. It seems AE energetically favored fuel flexibility, and END-males were better equipped to handle this stressor than their RES or female counterparts. The lack of any change in [glu] for END-females during WT and RES-males during AE may be a result of the novelty of the exercise.

Acknowledgements

Funding provided by the NJ Institute for Food, Nutrition, & Health.

Correspondence: Jose Antonio (ja839@nova.edu)

Background

The consumption of a high protein diet (>3 g/kg/d) over a one-year period in highly trained men has been shown to have no harmful effects on kidney and liver function. Thus, the purpose of these case reports was to do a follow-up investigation of five subjects on a high protein diet over another 1-year period.

Methods

Five healthy resistance-trained men (mean ± SD; age 30 ± 5 yr; height 177.9 ± 5.5 cm) volunteered to continue to consume a high-protein diet (>2.2 g/kg/d over another 12 month period). Subjects came to the lab every 6 months to assess body composition. Subjects continued to provide dietary self-reports via the Myfitnesspal app (>150 diet recalls per year). No other instructions were given. Each subject was provided with protein powder so they could attain their protein intake goals. A comprehensive metabolic panel and blood lipid panel was assessed in a fasted state.

Results

Please see Tables 7, 8 and 9.

Conclusion

Consuming a high-protein diet for 2 years in resistance-trained men has no deleterious effects on liver or kidney function. Subjects also demonstrated above average bone mineral density.

Acknowledgements

Correspondence: Guillermo Escalante (gescalan@csusb.edu)

Background

Controversy exists regarding the relationship of anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use and anger. This investigation examines self-reported anger measurements among AAS users before, during, and after AAS use.

Methods

A total of 20.9% (n=408) of 1955 male non-medical anabolic-androgenic steroid (NMAAS) users (age = 31.1 +/- 9.2 years) participated in a web-based survey and reported an anger problem before taking AAS. Four measurements of anger were analyzed before, during, and after AAS use. Anger intensity was ranked as: 1 = Mild, 2 = ModMild, 3 = Moderate, 4 = ModSev, 5 = Severe; anger control was ranked as 1 = Poor, 2 = PoorMod, 3 = Moderate, 4 = ModGood, 5 = Good; anger frequency was ranked as 1 = Very rarely, 2 = Rarely, 3 = Occasionally, 4 = Frequently, 5 = Very frequently; anger duration was ranked as 1 = Short periods, 2 = Short/Mod, 3 = Moderate, 4 = ModLong, 5 = Long periods.

Results

A Friedman test and post-hoc Wilcoxon signed ranks tests with Bonferroni corrections were used to analyze anger intensity, control, frequency, and duration before, during, and after AAS use. Anger intensity increased from “mild-moderate” (mean = 1.94) to “moderate” (mean = 2.39) (p < 0.001) from before AAS use to during use and decreased back to “mild-moderate” (mean = 1.68) (p < 0.001) after use. Anger control remained in the “poor control” category (mean = 1.81) although improved towards “poor-moderate” (mean = 1.90) (p < 0.001) from before AAS use to during use and improved more to “poor-moderate” (mean = 2.28) (p < 0.001) after use. Anger frequency remained in the “rarely” category (mean = 2.08) but increased towards “occasionally” (mean = 2.16) (p < 0.001) from before AAS use to during use and improved to “very rarely” (mean = 1.75) (p < 0.001) after use. Anger duration remained in the “short-mod periods” (mean = 2.09) category but improved towards “short periods” (mean = 2.05) (p = 0.001) from before AAS use to during use and improved more to “short periods” (mean = 1.86) (p < 0.001) after use.

Conclusion

NMAAS users with pre-existing anger issues reported increased anger intensity and frequency during use. However, they also endorsed better anger control and shorter anger duration during AAS use. Upon stopping AAS, participants reported improvements in all four anger measurements as compared to pre-AAS levels.

Acknowledgments

The authors acknowledge the data collection of the original research team of “A league of their own: demographics, motivations and patterns of use of 1,955 male adult non-medical anabolic steroid users in the United States,” www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2131752/

Correspondence: Joseph K. Pellegrino (JoePell@rutgers.edu)

Background

Though the branched-chain amino acids (BCAA’s) play a primary structural role, their secondary metabolic role is also important. BCAA’s account for 20-25% of dietary protein, yet bypass splanchnic oxidation, making the major site of BCAA use skeletal muscle. Serum concentrations of BCAA’s and downstream metabolites during and after exercise may provide insight into the metabolic flux and dietary needs associated with exercise.

Materials and Methods

Four groups of 10 individuals grouped by sex (M/F) and training history (endurance=END, Resistance=RES; %BF_M-END=10.1±4.1%; %BF_F-END=23.3±5.3%; %BF_M-RES=15.5±6%; %BF_F-RES=23.4±4.5%; VO₂max_M-END=57.5 ±7.5 ml/kg/min; VO₂max_F-END=44.9±3.1 ml/kg/min; VO₂max_M-RES=41.5±3.7 ml/kg/min; VO₂max_F-RES=41.8±2.5 ml/min/kg) underwent 45-min bouts of each aerobic-cycling (AE) or anaerobic weight-training (WT) separated by 3-7 days. Serum was collected before, 0, and 60 minutes post-exercise, and analyzed for AA and downstream metabolite concentrations via UHPLC/MS by Metabolon. RM-ANOVA’s were conducted on log-transformed-median-scaled outputs with significance set at P<0.05. Heat-maps and fold-of changes were generated from the metabolomics response.

Results.

BCAA levels declined throughout the exercise & recovery period for all group & exercise combinations. Two sex-specific interactions were revealed regarding the time-course of BCAA metabolism with exercise. Across training background, females showed 2 patterns: a decrease in [BCAA] during WT, which was maintained throughout recovery (pre-post₀= 0.83±0.04 and pre-post₆₀= 0.79±0.06, P<0.05; post₀-post₆₀= 0.94±0.03, P>0.05); no change during AE with a significant decline post-exercise (pre-post₀= 0.98±0.03, P>0.05; pre-post₆₀= 0.86±0.03 and post₀-post₆₀= 0.88±0.04, P<0.05). Alternatively, males responded primarily as a function of training background rather than exercise mode. M-RES [BCAA] decreased pre-post₀ exercise, and stayed below baseline after (pre-post₀= 0.89±0.02, and pre-post₆₀= 0.80±0.04, P<0.05; post₀-post₆₀= 0.89±0.04, P>0.05), while M-END experienced no change during, followed by a post-exercise drop in [BCAA] (pre-post₀= 0.93±0.02, P>0.05; pre-post₆₀= 0.81±0.06 and post₀-post₆₀= 0.87±0.05, P<0.05). Immediate 2-methyl-oxo-BC-keto-acid products significantly increased during exercise and returned to baseline during recovery, whereas more downstream catabolites increased during exercise, and remained significantly elevated during recovery for all groups and sessions (BCKA_AVG: pre-post₀=1.77±0.34, P<0.05, pre-post₆₀= 1.06±0.21, P>0.05; post₀-post₆₀= 0.63±0.15, P<0.05; Downstream-Catabolite_AVG: pre-post₀= 1.46±0.35 and pre-post₆₀= 1.29±0.26, P<0.05; post₀-post₆₀= 0.90±0.13, P>0.05).

Conclusions.

The time-course of BCAA metabolism in response to exercise exhibited differential patterns: mode of exercise was the primary stimulus for females and training-background was the distinguishing factor for males. M-RES and F doing WT tended to utilize BCAA during exercise, while there was a more delayed metabolism for M-END and F following AE. These findings are in accord with data describing utilization of multiple substrates during and after exercise in differentially-trained males and females.

Acknowledgements

Funding provided by the NJ Institute for Food, Nutrition & Health.

Correspondence: Douglas Kalman (douglas.kalman@qps.com)

Background

Elite athletes often undergo high volume and or intensity training. This volume may affect ability to gain or maintain muscle as well as effect the immune system.

Materials and Methods

Eleven healthy men (age 28.1±2.63 yrs, convenience sample), entered this prospective pilot trial, and after signing an informed consent underwent anthropometric and baseline body composition testing. Participants were divided to receive Whey Protein or Rice Protein (NutraBio Whey Isolate/Growing Naturals Rice Protein Isolate) and instructed to supplement with 3 scoops per day (75 grams Pro), with at least 1 scoop (25 gmPro) being ingested after the first training session of the day. Both proteins were tested for banned substances for sport (BSCG, Los Angeles, CA). Subjects engaged in MMA training under the supervision of their coaches (Combat Club, Lantana, FL.) standardized for two sessions per day for five days per week with one session per weekend plus two strength and conditioning sessions per week. Body composition was measured using the BodyMetrix Pro Ultrasound (IntelaMetrix, Brentwood, CA.). All pa:rticipants were asked to maintain their typical diet.

Results

The Whey and Rice groups were not different at baseline with respect to body weight (p=0.12), body mass index (p=0.49), percent body fat (p=0.95), fat-free mass (p=0.13), and fat mass (p=0.49). Over the six weeks, within group changes for the Whey group included non-significant changes in body weight (193±31.5 lbs to 195±34.3 lbs; p=0.398), % body fat (11.1±4.33% to 11.3±2.89% p=0.868), FFM (171±26.7 lbs to 173±27.5 lbs; p=0.617) and FM (21.7±9.85 lbs to 22.5 ±8.35 lbs;p=0.782). In these same six weeks, the Rice group (n=5) experienced changes: weight (167±13.6 lbs to 164±12.5 lbs;p=0.159), % body fat (10.9±3.02% to 7.62±1.76%;p=0.098), FFM (149±13.6 lbs to 152±13.2 lbs;p=0.090), and FM (18.2±5.12 lbs to 12.5±2.4 lbs;p=0.095). In terms of between group observations at week six, body weight was not different (p=0.1443), % body fat trended for difference for the Rice group (p=0.05486), FFM was not different between groups (p=0.317) and FM was also not significantly different between the groups (p=0.5486).

Conclusions

Adding a mean of 0.92 gm/kg BW Protein (0.41 gm/lb BW) to the diet of an elite level mixed martial artist appears to support maintenance of body composition and fat-free mass while undergoing high volume and intensity training. It does not appear that there was any benefit to one protein source over another, both Whey and Rice protein results were statistically similar. More research is warrented.

Disclosure

This study was funded by a research grant from Growing Naturals to Combat Club (Lantana, Florida). The authors consult for Combat Club and have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Correspondence: Richard J. Bloomer (rbloomer@memphis.edu)

Background

Theacrine is a relatively new dietary ingredient, structurally similar to caffeine, and reported to improve mood and cognition in human subjects. The primary purpose of the present study was to determine the tolerability and safety effects of theacrine (i.e., heart rate [HR] and blood pressure [BP]), as well as the impact of theacrine on subjective feelings and cognitive performance in men and women.

Methods

24 men (aged: 24.3±6.1) and 26 women (aged: 23.4±3.5) ingested a placebo, theacrine (Teacrine™, Compound Solutions, Inc.) at 25 mg, at 125 mg, caffeine at 150 mg, or theacrine at 125 mg + caffeine at 150 mg on five separate occasions, separated by approximately one week. HR and BP were measured before ingestion and at 30 minutes, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 hours post ingestion. Subjects also rated their subjective feelings using a 10 cm visual analog scale at the above times, and performed the trail making test (TMT) of cognitive performance at baseline and at hours 2 and 4 post ingestion. Within conditions changes were assessed with Bonferonni adjustments for pairwise comparisons with significance set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results

All 50 subjects successfully completed the study without any adverse eventTGhiss or other issues associated with ingestion of the treatments. Subjective feelings of attentiveness, focus, and energy improved with all active treatments. Grogginess and lethargy significantly declined over time with all treatments. More favorable scores were generally associated with the caffeine and theacrine+caffeine treatments. Caffeine and theacrine+caffeine resulted in a significant increase in subjective focus from baseline to 2 hours post-ingestion, while the 125 mg theacrine treatment reached statistical significance at 3 hours post-ingestion similar results were not observed in the placebo condition. Sense of energy significantly increased from baseline to 2 hours post-ingestion in caffeine and theacrine+caffeine treatments; meanwhile, 125 mg theacrine produced a significant rise in energy 3 hours post-ingestion. Treatment with theacrine had little impact on HR and BP, with marginal increases (~3 bpm; ~3 mm Hg) and no condition by time interactions noted (p>0.05). No condition effects were noted for the TMT (p>0.05), although a trend was present (p=0.069) for theacrine+caffeine, with TMT time improved at 4 hours post ingestion versus pre.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that theacrine, when used alone at 125 mg or in combination with caffeine, is safe and effective at improving subjective feelings related to energy in healthy men and women without significantly affecting HR or BP. Theacrine+caffeine may moderately improve cognitive performance as assessed by the TMT.

Acknowledgements

Funding for this work was provided by Compound Solutions, Inc. MB and MBS have no conflicts of interest to disclose. RJB has received research funding from and acted as a consultant to dietary supplement companies.

Correspondence: Stephanie Mull (smull@gwu.edu)

Background

The purpose of this study was threefold: (1) To determine whether RT plus dietary intervention (RT+DIET) results in greater improvements in body composition compared with RT or DIET alone; (2) To determine whether RT plus dietary intervention (RT+DIET) results in greater improvements in fat mass in the visceral depot compared with RT or DIET alone, and; (3) To determine whether concomitant increases in muscle mass and decreases in fat mass can occur while in a caloric deficit.

Methods

Subjects were 40 obese, premenopausal female volunteers (Body mass = 87.4±12.6; Height = 165.7±7; Age = 32.3±4.8; BMI = 31.9±4.4), randomly assigned to one of four groups: Resistance Training only (RT n=10); Dietary intervention only (DIET n=10); Resistance Training plus Diet (RT+DIET n=10); Control (CON n=10). Baseline measures of body composition were obtained via Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) and for resting metabolic rate (RMR) via indirect calorimetry. Follow-up DXA scans were obtained at weeks 4, 8, 12 and 16 and RMR testing was repeated at week 16. Subjects in DIET and RT+DIET were provided with daily macronutrient and calorie goals based on their DXA and RMR tests by a registered dietitian, with protein maintained at 1.4 g/lb. FFM/day. Subjects in the RT and RT+DIET groups performed a supervised RT program consisting of exercises for all the major muscle groups. Subjects trained 3 times per week for weeks 1-3 of each month, then trained twice weekly during the 4^th week of each month.

Results

There was a significant month by group interaction for fat mass. There was no significant linear trend for control. The treatment groups all showed significant linear decreases in fat mass, but the slope of the decrease became progressively steeper from the resistance-training only group, to the diet-only group, to the resistance-training+diet group. There was a significant linear increase for lean mass in resistance training-only. There was no significant month by group interaction or group effect for RMR.

Conclusions

Significant reductions in fat mass were achieved by all experimental groups, but results were maximized by a combination of RT and diet. Only the RT group showed significant increases in lean mass. RMR remained unchanged over the course of the study period.

Acknowledgements

Funded by the Redstone Global Center for Prevention and Wellness.

Correspondence: C. Kerksick (ckerksick@lindenwood.edu)

BACKGROUND

Beta-alanine (BA) is a precursor to carnosine, a key intracellular buffer that assists in the maintenance of intracellular pH during high-intensity efforts. Rugby consists of multiple intermittent periods of maximal or near-maximal efforts with short periods of rest/active recovery. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of 6wks of BA supplementation on anaerobic performance measures in collegiate rugby players.

METHODS

Sixteen male, collegiate rugby players (21±1.5 yrs; 179±6.2 cm; 91.2±11.1 kg; 20.1±4.3% body fat) were randomized in a double-blind, placebo controlled manner to consume 6.4 g/d of placebo (PLA) or BA. In identical pre/post testing sessions, anaerobic endurance and strength endurance was assessed. Anaerobic endurance was assessed using distance covered during a field-based intermittent sprint running test with blood lactate (BLa) collections at rest, after the 2^nd and 4^th sets, and immediately post completion. During a five set to fatigue protocol at 70%1RM examining lower body (back squat) strength endurance, lower body peak power (LPE) and average power (LAE) endurance were evaluated by changes in peak power and average power between all sets. Data was analyzed using 2x2 (group x time) mixed factorial ANOVAs with repeated measures on time. Data is presented as means ± SD.

RESULTS

Pre/post resting BLa levels were not different (p>0.05) between groups, but resting BLa levels did decrease (p<0.05) in both groups at POST vs PRE. BLa levels sharply increased before and after supplementation, with no interaction effect being observed between groups. However, BLa levels in BA were more favorably maintained when compared to PLA from start to completion of running (p < 0.05). Peak and average power values at PRE and POST were similar baseline between groups (p > 0.05). When compared to PRE, peak power values produced throughout the SE protocol decreased similarly in both groups, while average power values did not change. The BA group experienced a significant decrease in peak power from sets 3 to 4 compared to PLA (p = 0.03), however no other significance was observed between the other sets for either group. No significant differences were observed in average power for either group.

CONCLUSIONS

BA non-significantly attenuated the overall increase in BLa. BA supplementation exerted minimal influence on the maintenance of power in a multi-set, fatiguing resistance exercise. Overall, these results suggest BA likely imparts minimal influence on the maintenance or improvement of anaerobic performance within the parameters of our study design.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors thank CarnoSyn for product donation and blinding and the NSCA Foundation for funding this project and the Lindenwood University Men’s Rugby team and coaches for their participation.

Correspondence: Jose Antonio (ja839@nova.edu)

Background

Prior research has shown that protein supplementation may have a positive effect on body composition; however, minimal research exists comparing whey to casein protein. Therefore, the purpose of the current study is to compare whey versus casein in regards to body composition and resting energy expenditure.

Methods

Eighteen physically trained, healthy individuals (23±3.1 yrs.; 171.7 cm; 12 males; 6 females) completed a randomized two condition [Combat 100% Isolate (Whey) versus Combat 100% (Casein)] by two-time point [Pre-, Post-] intervention. The intervention consisted of subjects supplementing with either whey or casein protein (60 g daily) in conjunction with resistance training over an 8-week period. Body composition was assessed via the the Bod Pod® and resting metabolic rate (RMR) was measured via a Parvo Metabolic Cart (Parvomedics Inc., Sandy, UT) both pre- and post-intervention.

Results

There were no differences within or between groups for any of the measures (Table 10).

Conclusion

Based on this pilot study, neither protein produced significant changes in body composition or REE over an 8-week treatment period. A study utilizing a larger sample coupled with an aggressive training program would be warranted.

Acknowledgements

Correspondence: Adam M. Gonzalez (Adam.Gonzalez@hofstra.edu)

Background

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of supplementation with 8 grams of citrulline malate on acute multi-joint resistance exercise performance, subjective measures of focus, energy, and fatigue, and the muscle swelling response to training in resistance-trained men.

Materials and methods

Twelve recreationally resistance-trained men (21.4 ± 1.6 y; 163.0 ± 46.2 cm; 85.0 ± 12.4 kg; 3.5 ± 1.6 y of resistance training experience) underwent two testing sessions administered in a randomized and double blind fashion. During each visit, participants were provided either 8 grams citrulline malate (CM) or a placebo (PL) 40-min prior to beginning a standardized warm-up and initiating a barbell bench press resistance exercise protocol. The resistance exercise protocol consisted of 5 sets of 15 repetitions at 75% 1RM with 2-minute rest intervals. Participants were instructed to complete all 15 repetitions or as many as possible without assistance. The total number of repetitions performed for each set was recorded. Additionally, the average and peak power of each repetition was recorded via an accelerometer. Participants were also given subjective questionnaires upon arrival (BL), 40-min following supplement ingestion (PRE), and immediately after the resistance exercise protocol (IP) to assess feelings of energy, focus, and fatigue, along with perceived exertion. A researcher also assessed muscle thickness of the triceps brachii via ultrasonography at BL, PRE, and IP. The two experimental trials occurred at the same time of day and were separated by approximately one week.

Results

Significant (p<0.05) main effects for time were observed for all variables except for subjective feelings of energy (p=0.085). A group × time interaction (F=2.86, p=0.034, n²=0.21) was observed for repetitions performed, where participants performed more (p=0.015) repetitions on set 3 during PL (5.7±1.2 repetitions) compared to CM (4.6±1.2 repetitions). However, during set 4, participants tended (p=0.089) to perform more repetitions during CM (4.8 ± 1.8 repetitions) compared to PL (4.3 ± 1.3 repetitions). No other differences were observed between trials.

Conclusions

In conclusion, supplementation with 8 grams of citrulline malate 40-mins prior to a low volume barbell bench press resistance exercise protocol did not appear to increase exercise performance, alter subjective measures of focus, energy, and fatigue, or augment the muscle swelling response to training in resistance-trained men.

Correspondence: Kelli Herrlinger (Kelli.Herrlinger@kemin.com)

Background

Neumentix™ Phenolic Complex K110-42 (NEU; Kemin Foods, L.C., Des Moines, IA), a natural spearmint extract containing 14.5% rosmarinic acid and 24% total phenolic content with cognitive benefits, has been previously demonstrated to be safe and well-tolerated when administered at 900 mg/day for 90 days to healthy, older adults. The present study builds on the current safety and tolerability data for this natural nootropic in young, healthy adults.

Methods

Recreationally-active men and women (n=142; NEU: 27.2 ± 0.9 y; placebo [PLA]: 27.9 ± 0.9 y) were randomized to consume either 900 mg of NEU or a visually-identical placebo (PLA) for 90 days. Safety and tolerance were assessed through blood safety panels, vital signs, inflammatory biomarkers, and monitoring of Adverse Events (AEs). Safety panels included: complete blood count, complete metabolic profile, and blood lipids. Vital signs were measured to investigate changes in hemodynamics. Inflammation was measured by C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Measurements were taken at baseline and at 7, 30, and 90 days during supplementation. AEs were assessed throughout the study.

Results

No statistically significant treatment effects were observed in the blood safety panels. Treatment x visit interactions were observed for absolute monocytes and granulocytes; pairwise comparisons revealed significant differences at Day 30, which were no longer evident at 90 days. All values in the blood safety panels were within the accepted physiological ranges. No statistically significant treatment effects were observed for any vital sign; however, a treatment x visit interaction (p=0.029) was observed for systolic blood pressure, resulting from a decrease in PLA. All vital signs remained within the accepted physiological ranges. Raw values for all measures of inflammation decreased over the 90 days in NEU, although no significant between group differences were observed. A trend was observed in treatment x visit interaction for CRP; pairwise comparison revealed significant between group differences at Day 30 (NEU, 1.39 ± 0.228 mg/L vs. PLA, 2.63 ± 0.932 mg/L; Mean ±SEM; p=0.040). There was no difference in total number of AEs or total number of AEs related to the study product between groups.

Conclusion

The present study confirms that chronic supplementation of 900 mg Neumentix in healthy adults is safe and well-tolerated. The positive trends with CRP warrant follow-up studies given the advantages for reducing inflammation after intense physical activity or sports performance. The current data further builds on the body of evidence for Neumentix as a safe and natural nootropic.

Acknowledgements

The present study was funded by Kemin Foods L.C.

Correspondence: Kelli Herrlinger (Kelli.Herrlinger@kemin.com)

Background

Studies have demonstrated that Neumentix^TM Phenolic Complex K110-42 (NEU; Kemin Foods, L.C., Des Moines, IA), a natural spearmint extract containing 14.5% rosmarinic acid and 24% total phenolic content, can improve cognition. Given the growing interest in connecting mental and physical performance, the current study examined whether the nootropic benefits of Neumentix supplementation translate into improvements in active cognitive performance in young, healthy adults.

Methods

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel design, 142 recreationally-active adults (NEU: 27.2±0.9y; placebo [PLA]: 27.9±0.9y) were randomized to consume 900 mg of NEU or a visually-identical PLA for 90 days. Choice reaction performance was measured as hits and average reaction time (ART) on a three-tower testing device (Makoto Arena II; Makoto USA Inc., Elk Grove Village, IL) via six tests: stationary, lateral, and multi-directional, each administered with or without footplates. Measurements were taken at baseline,7, 30, and 90 days during supplementation. Data are shown as mean ±SEM.

Results

A treatment effect (p=0.019) was observed for hits on the stationary test with footplates, pairwise comparisons revealed significant differences at Day 30 (NEU: 28.96±0.275 hits vs. PLA: 28.09±0.256 hits; p=0.040) and Day 90 (NEU: 28.42±0.352 hits vs. PLA: 27.02±0.487 hits; p=0.002) compared to placebo. A treatment effect (p=0.036) was observed for ART on the stationary test with footplates and pairwise comparisons revealed significant differences at Day 7 (NEU: 0.5896±0.0074 sec vs. PLA: 0.6141±0.0096 sec; p=0.049) and Day 30 (NEU: 0.5811±0.0090 sec vs. PLA: 0.6033±0.0074 sec; p=0.049) compared to placebo. A treatment effect (p=0.020) was observed for - hits on the multi-directional test with footplates, and pairwise comparisons revealed significant differences at Day 30 (NEU: 19.25±0.244 hits vs. PLA: 18.45±0.198 hits; p=0.007) and Day 90 (NEU: 19.39±0.263 hits vs. PLA: 18.66±0.225 hits; p=0.026) compared to placebo. There were no significant differences observed for the remaining Makoto tests.

Conclusion

The present study indicates that 900 mg of Neumentix improves ART in a stationary test of choice reaction performance as early as 7 days and enhances hit rate in both stationary and multi-directional testing following 30 days of supplementation with the effect still present at 90 days in young, healthy individuals. The unique device used was selected because it links cognitive function to active performance. The current data confirm previous work, and provide evidence that the cognitive benefits of Neumentix would be applicable to an athletic context (training, practice, or competition), thus further supporting Neumentix as a safe and natural nootropic.

Acknowledgements

The present study was funded by Kemin Foods L.C.

Correspondence: James Komorowski (jkomorowski@nutrition21.com)

Background

In a previous clinical study, an amylopectin/chromium complex (ACr; Velositol®) was shown to double muscle protein synthesis (MPS) when added to 6 g of whey protein (WP) compared to WP alone. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of ACr when added to increasing doses of WP to determine if benefits seen in the clinical study could also apply to higher doses of WP.

Methods

Young (8-week old) male Wistar rats (250-300 g) were randomized into nine groups (n=8 in each group) (Table 11).

On the day of the single-dose experiment, rats were exercised at 26 m/min for 2 hours and then fed protein or water according to their assigned group. Approximately one hour later, rats were injected with a bolus dose (250 mg/kg body weight, 25 g/L) of labeled phenylalanine, and ten minutes later, muscle tissue samples were taken to measure the fractional rate of protein synthesis (FSR).

Results

In this study, all active treatment groups (II - IX) increased MPS compared to the exercise control group (p<0.05). However, all the WP plus ACr groups (VI, VII, VIII and IX) increased MPS over their corresponding WP alone groups (Fig. 1; p<0.05).

Conclusions

Within the confines of this preclinical study design, the addition of ACr to increasing doses of WP enhanced exercise-induced MPS over whey protein alone, providing evidence that the beneficial effects seen in the clinical study using 6 g of whey protein can also occur when using higher doses of whey protein. In addition, the maximum FSR levels seen in the ACr groups were higher than the maximum FSR levels achieved with whey protein alone.

Acknowledgements

This study was funded by Nutrition21, LLC.

	Group	Human Equivalent WP Dose	Human Equivalent ACr Dose
(I)	Exercise Control Group	0 g	0 g
(II)	Exercise plus WP (0.465 g/kg BW)	6 g	0 g
(III)	Exercise plus WP (1.55 g/kg BW)	20 g	0 g
(IV)	Exercise plus WP (2.33 g/kg BW)	30 g	0 g
(V)	Exercise plus WP (3.1 g/kg BW)	40 g	0 g
(VI)	Exercise plus WP (0.465 g/kg BW) and ACr (0.155 g/kg BW)	6 g	2 g
(VII)	Exercise plus WP (1.55 g/kg BW) and ACr (0.155 g/kg BW)	20 g	2 g
(VIII)	Exercise plus WP (2.33 g/kg BW) and ACr (0.155 g/kg BW)	30 g	2 g
(IX)	Exercise plus WP (3.1 g/kg BW) and ACr (0.155 g/kg BW)	40 g	2 g

Correspondence: James Komorowski (jkomorowski@nutrition21.com)

Background

Prior studies have shown that an amylopectin/chromium complex (ACr; Velositol®) significantly enhances the ability of whey protein to increase muscle protein synthesis (MPS). This preclinical study was designed to further examine the effects of ACr when added to a different protein source. This time, a plant-based protein source was selected to determine if benefits seen in the clinical study could also apply to plant proteins. The purpose of this preclinical study was to evaluate if the addition of ACr to pea protein could increase MPS after exercise compared to pea protein and exercise alone. Pea protein contains ~8% leucine by weight compared to ~11% in whey protein.

Methods

Male Wistar rats (8-week old) weighing approximately 250-300 g were reared at 22 ± 2 °C in a 12/12 hour light/dark cycle and randomized into three groups (n=8 in each group): (I) Exercise control group; (II) Exercise plus pea protein (0.465 g/kg BW equivalent to a 6 g human dose); (III) Exercise plus pea protein (0.465 g/kg BW equivalent to a 6 g human dose) and ACr (0.155 g/kg BW equivalent to a 2 g human dose).

Rats were acclimated using a 10-day treadmill schedule that gradually increased in speed and duration up to 26 m/min for 15 minutes. On the day of the single-dose experiment, rats were exercised at 26 m/min for 2 hours and then fed protein or water according to their assigned group, immediately after exercise. Study product was dissolved in water and administered by oral gavage. Approximately one hour later, rats were injected with a bolus dose (250 mg/kg body weight, 25 g/L) of phenylalanine labeled with deuterium to measure the fractional rate of protein synthesis (FSR) and ten minutes later, muscle tissue samples were taken to determine MPS measured by FSR.

Results

Compared to the exercise control group, both treatment groups (II and III) increased MPS (p<0.05). However, the pea protein plus ACr group (III) increased MPS by 43% over the exercise control group, compared to a 30% increase in the pea protein group (II) (Fig. 2; p<0.05 between treatment groups).

Conclusions

As demonstrated in this preclinical study, the addition of ACr to pea protein enhanced MPS by 43% over pea protein alone, providing evidence that the beneficial effects seen in the clinical study using whey protein may also occur when using other sources of plant-based (e.g., pea) protein.

Acknowledgements

This study was funded by Nutrition21, LLC.

Correspondence: James Komorowski (jkomorowski@nutrition21.com)

+Background

In a previous clinical study, an amylopectin/chromium complex (ACr; Velositol®) was shown to significantly increase muscle protein synthesis (MPS) when added to 6 g of whey protein compared to whey protein alone. In that study, ACr doubled the impact of protein on MPS. The purpose of this preclinical study was to evaluate if the addition of ACr to branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) could increase MPS after exercise compared to BCAA and exercise alone. BCAA consist of a combination of the amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine most commonly in a 2:1:1 ratio. BCAA contains 50% leucine content compared to 11% in whey protein.

Methods

All rats completed a 10-day treadmill acclimation schedule that gradually increased in speed and duration up to 26 m/min for 15 minutes. On the day of the single-dose experiment, rats were exercised at 26 m/min for 2 hours and then fed BCAAs or water according to their assigned group, immediately after exercise. The study product was dissolved in water and administered by oral gavage. Approximately one hour later, rats were injected with a bolus dose (250 mg/kg body weight, 25 g/L) of phenylalanine labeled with deuterium to measure the fractional rate of protein synthesis (FSR) and ten minutes later, muscle tissue samples were taken to determine MPS measured by FSR.

Results

Both treatment groups (II and III) increased MPS compared to the exercise control group (p<0.05). However, the BCAA plus ACr group (III) increased MPS by 71% over the exercise control group, compared to a 57% increase in the BCAA group (II) (Fig. 3; p<0.05 between treatment groups).

Conclusions

Within the confines of this preclinical study design, the addition of ACr to BCAA enhanced exercise-induced MPS by 25% over BCAA alone, providing evidence that the beneficial effects seen in the clinical study using whey protein, may also occur when using BCAA.

Acknowledgements

This study was funded by Nutrition21, LLC.

Correspondence: Robert Wildman (rwildman@dymatize.com)

Background

Every year hundreds of college football players prepare for the NFL Combine and/or Pro Days. Chip Smith Performance Systems (CSPS) (Norcross, GA) is a major professional/elite training facility and one of the most prominent of these facilities providing a training platform, position-specific coaching and offering chef-prepared meals and nutrition products. The purpose of this investigation is to present anthropometric and performance data from the 2017 Combine Training class at CSPS.

Materials & Methods

Fifty-five college players attended Combine/ProDay Training at CSPS for 4-8 weeks, early January to March 2017. Arrival and length of stay were dependent upon end of season/bowl and Combine and/or ProDay schedule. Players were acclimated to on/off-site schedules including field work, strength, power, speed and agility training and position-specific coaching. Most players ate hotel buffet breakfast, received chef-prepared meals for late afternoon/evening and some received nutrition counseling. Nutrition products (Dymatize, Dallas TX; PowerBar, Emeryville CA) including protein (whey, casein), BCAAs, creatine, carbohydrate and fish oil were provided with instructions for use. Training included an emphasis on Combine/ProDay performance measures (e.g. bench press (BP) 225 lb reps to failure), 40-yard dash (40YD), etc. Pre/post body composition (InBody 770, InBodyUSA) and performance data were captured at CSPS or at Combine/ProDay. Players signed an informed consent and study design was simply observational reporting of recorded player data.

Results

The number of data points (n) collected for each measure varied. Body weight change varied based player status and position specific goals. Meanwhile, roughly 70% recorded gains in skeletal muscle mass (SMM) (1.1 ± 1.5 kg; 2.3 ± 3.2%) with 58% gaining ≥1 kg and 35% ≥2 kg. Roughly 65% reduced body fat mass (BFM) (-0.4 ± 1.2 kg; -2.3 ± 0.1%) with 35% and 12% reducing fat mass by ≥1 kg and ≥2 kg, respectively. Bench press increased for 95% of players (5.5±2.4 reps) with 71% and 31% increasing ≥5 and 7 reps, respectively. All players assessed got faster in the 40YD (-0.2 ± 0.1 sec).

Conclusions

The observational results of this investigation demonstrate that college football players transitioning from end of season/bowl games to Combine/ProDay assessments and training at CSPS with training and nutrition support can make dramatic improvements in body composition and performance measures. These improvements may impact draft position or catalyze undrafted contracts with professional teams. Based on the study design, relationships between specific training and nutrition aspects cannot be made at this time.

Acknowledgements

We wish to acknowledge: 1) Chip Smith and coaches at CSPS, 2) InBodyUSA for providing InBody770 BIA, 3) Dymatize and POWERBAR for providing nutrition products.

Correspondence: Courtney M. Nordhus (cnordhus@twu.edu)

Background

Proteins have the greatest thermogenic potential compared to the other macronutrients. Whey protein is a complete protein and considered the standard for supplemental proteins due to its high branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) content. Chicken protein isolate (CPI) is a novel, complete protein with similar concentration of BCAAs. Effects of WPC versus CPI on post-prandial metabolism is unknown. Therefore, this investigation examined acute metabolic responses to isocaloric whey protein concentrate (WPC), carbohydrate (CHO), and CPI supplements.

Materials and Methods

In a single-blind design, 26 recreationally active males (174.8±7.5 cm; 77.1±11.1 kg; 22±2 years; 60.3±9.3 kg lean) ingested 0.3 g/kg lean soft tissue WPC (WPC80), CHO (maltodextrin), or CPI (ChikPro, International Dehydrated Foods, Springfield, MO, USA). Resting energy expenditure (REE) and respiratory quotient (RQ) were measured using indirect calorimetry over a 3-hour post-prandial period and compared to a pre-treatment, fasting baseline. Average treatment dose was 18.5 g of protein or CHO. Data were collected at pre, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 105, 120, 150, 165, and 180 minutes using the average of the previous 10 data points. Thermogenic effect of food (TEF) was estimated from AUC of the REE delta values from baseline. Data are reported as mean±standard deviation.

Results

No differences existed at baseline between treatments for REE or RQ (p>0.05). Delta from baseline indicated significant (p<0.05) elevation of REE for WPC at 60, 90, 105, and 120 minutes post-ingestion (60 m: 0.197±0.107; 90 m: 0.143±0.070; 105: 0.103±0.073; 120 m: 0.107±0.068 Cal/minute) and for CPI beginning at 90 minutes and remaining greater through 180 minutes (90 m: 0.143±0.057; 105: 0.137±0.063; 120: 0.165±0.073; 150: 0.115±0.069; 165: 0.103±0.067; 180: 0.143±0.069 Cal/minute) versus CHO (60 m: 0.019±0.092; 90 m: -0.022±0.056; 105: -0.036±0.071; 120: -0.035±0.085; 150: -0.014±0.085; 165: -0.015±0.075; 180: -0.001±0.059 Cal/minute). TEF was significantly (p<0.05) greater for WPC (+7.9±4.3Cal) than CHO (+3.0±4.5Cal) beginning at 60 minutes post ingestion and for CPI (+10.2±4.5Cal) versus CHO (+2.3±5.9Cal) beginning at 90 minutes post-ingestion and remained greater through 180 minutes (WPC: +20.5±10.4; CHO: +0.6±12.2; CPI: +24.0±9.6Cal).

Conclusions

Both WPC and CPI increased REE over 3 hours versus isocaloric CHO. However, CPI has later onset and is sustained for a longer period of time than WPC compared to CHO despite similar total TEF over three hours. Absorption rates and metabolism of WPC and CPI may differ. Metabolic effects of CPI beyond 180 minutes following ingestion and digestion rates between WPC and CPI should be investigated.

Acknowledgements – Supported by International Dehydrated Foods (Springfield, MO) and Dymatize Athletic Nutrition Institute (Dallas, TX).

Correspondence: Michael Lane (Michael.Lane@eku.edu)

Background

There is very little research on acute barbell lifting performance alterations due to supplementation in women. Athletic female populations utilizing velocity tracking apparatus to determine performance must be performed to analyze the effects of energy drinks.

Purpose

Investigate the effects of an energy drink on barbell lifting, and reaction time in women.

Methods

17 college-aged female subjects completed this study (1.64±.08 m, 61.3±6.8 kg, 21.6±1.7y/o, mean±std dev). The initial visit involved consent documentation, health history information, and anthropometrics. Body composition was established using plethysmography (body fat percentage 22.5±6.9%). Subjects were familiarized with the lab’s computerized reaction time test (RTT) (PsychoPy-Python V1.82) and tested for their one repetition maximum (1RM) on back squats (73.2±21.8 kg) and bench press (43.0±13.4 kg). After initial testing, subjects scheduled their next testing session 5-9 days later. Utilizing a crossover double blind study, subjects were given either a supplement, supplement without carbohydrates, or a placebo. Twenty minutes after ingestion subjects took the RTT followed by a warm up and three vertical jumps. For the squat and bench press subjects performed the same protocol of 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90% of their 1RM for up to 3 repetitions at each load. Afterwards subjects performed 15 repetitions on a cadence with 70% of their system max for the movement. Afterwards they performed another RTT. Each visit was 5-9 days from the other trials. Individual lifting performance was normalized and RTT change scores were established. Data was analyzed utilizing two way RMANOVAs with post hoc Bonferroni adjustment for significant differences between treatments.

Results

Reaction time test correct answer rate was 89.6±12.19% at a rate of .55±.10 sec. Squat mean velocity performance across the different percentages was: .96±.14, .90±.12, .85±.11, .77±.10, .69±.10, .61±.09, .49±.09 m/s respectively. Bench press mean velocity performance across the different percentages was: .79±.16, .79±.15, .76±.13, .71±.12, .63±.11, .50±.10, .38±.11 m/s respectively. There were no significant differences in any variable for the energy drink conditions compared to the placebo (p > .05).

Conclusion

Energy drink consumption does not have an effect on maximal velocity output in squat and bench press performance nor in a fatiguing protocol.

Correspondence: Michael Lane (Michael.Lane@eku.edu)

Background

Use of caffeine and energy drinks might be able to mask fatigue when otherwise an athlete would underperform. Barbell velocity is used as a marker of athlete performance in the collegiate and professional level. Research must be performed into the effects of energy drinks on lifting performance.

Purpose: Investigate the effects of an energy drink on velocity, reaction time, and ratings of perceived exertion.

Methods

15 college-aged male subjects participated in this study (1.79±.04 m, 80.3±5.8 kg, 22.7±2.8y/o, mean ± standard deviation). Subjects arrived and filled out participation documents. Body composition was established using air displacement (body fat percentage 14.1±4.9). Subjects were then familiarized with the lab’s computerized reaction time test (RTT) (PsychoPy-Python V1.82). Subjects were tested for their one repetition maximum (1RM) on barbell back squats (129.5±27.5 kg) and bench press (99.7±25.5 kg). Following baseline testing, subjects scheduled their next testing session conducted 5-9 days later. Utilizing a crossover double blind study, subjects were given either a placebo, supplement, or supplement without carbohydrate. After waiting twenty minutes they performed the RTT and visual analog scale (VAS) followed by a standardized warm up and three vertical jumps. Subjects then squatted and performed up to three maximal velocity repetitions with 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90% of their 1RM. Afterwards subjects performed 15 repetitions on a cadence with 70% of their system max. Subjects performed the same protocol on the bench press. Finally, subjects performed the RTT and VAS again. Visits were spaced 5-9 days apart for each trial. Data was normalized for individual lifting performance and change scores were established for the RTT and VAS. Data was analyzed utilizing SPSS with ANOVAs for significant differences between treatments.

Results

Mean velocity performance for each percentage on the squat was: 1.11±.19, 1.04±.15, .95±.17, .85±.13, .74±.12, .63±.10, .52±.12 m/s respectively. Mean velocity performance for each percentage on the bench press was: 1.06±.17, .96±.16, .84±.13, .73±.12, .60±.13, .48±.11, .34±.12 m/s respectively. Overall there were no significant differences in performance across any of the percentages, other than the 30% squat. Subjects saw a significant decrease in their anxiety ratings during the supplement trials (p < .05).

Conclusions

Energy drinks potentially have a small effect on squat velocity performance for a few points along the 1RM spectrum, but do not significantly affect the entire range.

Correspondence: Jose Antonio (ja839@nova.edu)

Background

Alpha-Actinin-3 is a Z-disc protein expressed in fast-twitch or Type II skeletal muscle fibers. A polymorphism in the ACTN3 gene (R577X) results in the XX genotype (i.e., lack of alpha-actinin-3). The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between the expression of the ACTN3 gene (RR homozygous or RX heterozygous) and measures of stress, bench press strength and endurance, and body composition.

Methods

One-hundred and ten male and female athletes volunteered for this study (mean±SD: age 30.2±9.2 years; height 171.3±9.6 cm; % body fat 21.6±7.0; male n=55, female n=55). Body composition was assessed via a DEXA scan. Strength and muscle endurance was determined via a 1-RM for the bench press and repetitions to failure on the bench press at 60% of the 1-RM weight. Saliva was collected before and after the exercise test to determine salivary cortisol concentration as well as for ACTN3 genotyping. Genomic DNA extraction was performed using the QIAamp DNA Investigator kit, following the manufacturer instructions (QIAGEN, Valencia, CA). After isolation, amplification was conducted by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using allele specific fluorescent primers.

Results

There were no significant differences in body composition between XX and R/- (carriers of ACTN3) for body weight, lean body mass, fat mass or percentage body fat. However, R/- demonstrated significantly greater bone mineral content and density. Self-reported stress (pre- and post-exercise testing) showed no differences between XX and R/-. Baseline cortisol was significantly greater in the R/- group; however, no differences were found post-exercise testing. Furthermore, there were no significant differences between the XX and R/- groups for 1-RM bench press strength or repetitions to failure.

Conclusion

In exercise-trained individuals, the presence of the ACTN3 genotype did not confer an advantage with muscular strength/endurance, lean body mass or fat mass. However, carriers of the gene (R/-) demonstrated greater bone mineral content and density. Furthermore, the stress response (i.e., self-reported and salivary cortisol) was not different between groups post-exercise.

Keywords: ACTN3, DEXA, Body Composition, Cortisol, Strength

Correspondence: Jeremy R. Townsend (jrtownsend@lipscomb.edu)

Background

While the use of probiotics for improved immune function and gastrointestinal health has increased in popularity, little is known regarding the effect of supplementation on athletic adaptations and performance. Recent evidence suggests that probiotic supplementation may improve short-term recovery following an acute bout of resistance exercise, which may augment adaptations. Thus, the purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of probiotic supplementation during offseason training in collegiate athletes.

Methods

Twenty-three Division I female athletes (19.6±1.0y, 67.5±7.4 kg, 170.6±6.8 cm) from the university volleyball (n=10) and soccer (n=13) teams participated in this study and were randomized into either a probiotic (DE111; n=11) or placebo (PL; n=12) group. Athletes completed the same 10-week resistance training program during the offseason, which consisted of 3-4 workouts per week of upper and lower-body exercises and sport-specific training. Athletes consumed DE111 (DE111®; 5 billion CFU/day) or PL supplement in conjunction with a recovery drink (45 g CHO, 20 g PRO, 2 g FAT) immediately following resistance and sport-specific training for the entire 10-week program. On weekend or non-training days, athletes consumed the supplement with a meal. Pre and post-training, all athletes underwent one-repetition maximum (1RM) strength testing (squat, deadlift, bench press), performance testing (vertical jump, pro-agility) and isometric mid-thigh pull testing (IMTP). Three compartment body composition estimation (BF%) was completed via BOD POD and BIA analysis, as well as muscle thickness (MT) measurement of the rectus femoris (RF) and vastus lateralis (VL) via ultrasonography. Separate repeated measures analyses of variance were used to analyze all data. Additionally, magnitude based inferences were implemented to provide qualitative interpretation.

Results

DE111 produced significantly greater (p=0.015) improvements in BF% (-2.05±1.38%) compared to PL (-0.2±1.6%), with no other group x time interactions observed. Significant improvements were observed for both groups in squat 1RM (p<0.001), deadlift 1RM (p<0.001), bench press 1RM (p<0.001), vertical jump (p<0.001), BF% (p=0.001), and RF MT (p=0.015). No significant main effects were observed for any other variable. Furthermore, DE111 supplementation was “very likely beneficial” for BF% and “possibly beneficial” for deadlift 1RM (+12.0±6.6 kg) compared to PL (+7.8±7.4 kg).

Conclusions

These data suggest that probiotic consumption in conjunction with adequate post-workout nutrition may improve body composition and indices of athletic performance in female Division I soccer and volleyball players following offseason training. Future research is needed to elucidate potential mechanisms responsible for these findings.

Acknowledgements

This study was supported by Deerland Enzymes Inc.

Correspondence: Bill I. Campbell (bcampbell@usf.edu)

Background

Recently, a novel whey protein isolate (WPI) processing technique has been introduced, which may improve absorption, digestibility, and ultimately training adaptations. Utilizing this WPI processing technology, the purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of two different types of whey protein dietary supplements (standard whey protein isolate [Standard WPI] vs. a reduced volume of a proprietary processed whey protein isolate [Novel WPI]) on body composition in conjunction with an 8-week resistance-training program in resistance-trained males.

Methods

32 resistance-trained males (22.2±4.3 years; 177.3±7.8 cm; 77.6±12.6 kg) participated in this randomized, double-blinded investigation. Participants were matched according to fat-free mass (FFM) and randomized to the Standard WPI (n=18) or the Novel WPI (n=14). The Standard WPI group was provided with 27 g of WPI per serving and the Novel WPI group was given a reduced volume of WPI (20 g of uniquely processed WPI+7 g maltodextrin to match the volume of the Standard WPI serving size) immediately after each resistance training session (4x/week). At baseline and following 8-weeks of training, participants were assessed for body composition (FFM, dry lean mass [DLM], fat mass [FM], and bodyfat percentage [BF%]). The resistance-training program consisted of two lower-body and two upper-body workouts/week for 8 weeks. Data were analyzed via a 2-factor [2x2] between-subjects repeated measures ANOVA and pre to post changes within each group were analyzed by a paired-samples t-test.

Results

No differences existed between the two groups for body composition measures at baseline. The repeated measures ANOVA revealed a main effect for time for FFM (p<0.001) and DLM (p=0.05), but no group x time interactions. Specifically, FFM increased from 68.8±9.3 kg to 70.0±9.4 kg and from 67.1±9.0 kg to 67.8±9.7 kg; DLM increased from 19.6±3.7 kg to 20.2±3.5 kg and from 19.3±3.6 kg to 20.1±5.2 kg in the Standard WPI and Novel WPI groups, respectively. The paired samples t-test revealed a significant increase in FFM over time in the Standard WPI group (p=0.001) and a trend for significance in the Novel WPI group (p=0.082). However, when body water was accounted for (DLM), neither group significantly increased DLM over time (Standard WPI: p=0.164; Novel WPI: p=0.185). There were no main effects for time nor a group x time interaction for FM and BF% (p>0.05).

Conclusions

In resistance-trained males, using a reduced amount (25% less WPI) of novel processed WPI as a post-workout protein supplement elicits changes in body composition similar to using a higher-protein dosed, standard WPI supplement.

Acknowledgements

This study was supported by Plasma Nutrition.

Correspondence: Bill I. Campbell (bcampbell@usf.edu)

Background

Recently, a novel whey protein isolate (WPI) processing technique has been introduced to the market, which may improve absorption, digestibility, and ultimately training adaptations. Utilizing this WPI processing technology, the purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of two different types of whey protein dietary supplements (standard whey protein isolate [Standard WPI] vs. a reduced volume of a proprietary processed whey protein isolate [Novel WPI]) on maximal strength in conjunction with an 8-week resistance-training program in resistance trained males.

Methods

32 resistance-trained males (22.2±4.3 years; 177.3±7.8 cm; 77.6±12.6 kg) participated in this randomized, double-blinded investigation. Participants were matched according to FFM and randomized to the Standard WPI (n=18) or the Novel WPI (n=14). The Standard WPI group was provided with 27 g of WPI per serving and the Novel WPI group was given a reduced volume of WPI (20 g of uniquely processed WPI+7 g maltodextrin to match the volume of the Standard WPI serving size). Both protein supplements were taken immediately after each training session (4x/week). Both groups performed the same training program, and maintained a protein intake of 1.5-2.5 g/kg/d to facilitate recovery from and adaptation to training. At baseline and following 8-week training program, participants were assessed for maximal strength on the back squat, bench press, and deadlift. The program consisted of two lower-body and two upper-body workouts/week for an 8-week period. Data were analyzed via a 2-factor [2x2] between-subjects repeated measures ANOVA using SPSS v22.0. The criterion for significance was set at p≤0.05.

Results

No differences existed between the two groups for strength measures at baseline. The repeated measures ANOVA revealed a main effect for time for the back squat (p<0.001), bench press (p<0.001), and deadlift (p<0.001) exercises, but no group x time interactions were observed for absolute or relative strength between groups. Specifically, back squat increased from 131.2±25.5 kg to 144.8±25.1 kg (improvement of 10.4%) and from 131.6±37.6 kg to 145.5±35.4 kg (improvement of 10.6%); bench press increased from 100.3±19.0 kg to 108.0±19.5 kg (improvement of 7.7%) and from 96.0±19.9 kg to 100.9±20.2 kg (improvement of 5.1%); deadlift increased from 151.0±33.3 kg to 162.0±31.1 kg (improvement of 7.3%) and from 149.6±31.9 kg to 158.7±35.3 kg (improvement of 6.1%) in the Standard WPI and Novel WPI groups, respectively.

Conclusions

In resistance-trained males, using a reduced amount (25% less WPI) of novel processed WPI as a post-workout protein supplement elicits the same increases in strength as a higher-protein dosed, standard WPI supplement.

Acknowledgements

This study was supported by Plasma Nutrition.

Correspondence: Bill Campbell (bcampbell@usf.edu)

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a commercially available thermogenic supplement on resting metabolic rate (RMR) and hemodynamic variables in healthy males by using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design.

Methods

Ten males (26.5±6.4 years, 177.6±7.2 cm, 80.5±10.8 kg) participated in the investigation. Each participant underwent two different testing sessions within a 7-day period. After an overnight fast, each session began with the collection of heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) assessments, as well as two baseline RMR measurements. Following this, each participant ingested either a thermogenic supplement (Shred Sport™) or a placebo and the RMR, HR, and BP assessments were repeated at 60, 120, and 180 minutes post-ingestion. Data were analyzed via a 2-factor [2x4] within-subjects repeated measures ANOVA using SPSS version 22.0.

Results

Repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant effect for time relative to the raw RMR data. Post-hoc analyses revealed that the dietary supplement treatment demonstrated significant elevations in RMR at 60-minutes, 120-minutes, and 180-minutes post-ingestion (p ≤ 0.05). There were no significant elevations at any time point in the placebo treatment. Table 12 demonstrates the raw data and the percentage increases in RMR for each time point for both supplement treatments. HR significantly decreased at 60-minutes (from 60.3 ± 7.3 to 55.2 ± 5.0) and 180-minutes (from 60.3 ± 7.3 to 56 ± 4.7 beats/minute) in the thermogenic treatment and did not change at any time in the placebo treatment. SBP did not change significantly at any time point in either treatment. DBP increased significantly at all time points in the thermogenic treatment and increased significantly at 180-minutes post-ingestion in the placebo treatment, but all measures stayed within normal clinical values (60-80 mm Hg).

Conclusions

Correspondence: Bill Campbell (bcampbell@usf.edu)

Background

Daily undulating periodization (DUP) represents an increasingly popular trend in exercise science with which a traditional model has been established. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of traditional and tiered DUP models as they relate to body composition changes in trained males.

Methods

27 resistance-trained males (22±4.5 years; 80±11 kg) completed an 8-week resistance-training program and were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Traditional Daily Undulating Periodization (DUP; n=12) or Tiered Daily Undulating Periodization (TDUP; n=15). All subjects were required to squat, bench press, and deadlift 1.25x, 1x, and 1.5x their bodyweights, respectively. DVs included fat free mass (FFM), fat mass (FM), and body fat percentage (BF%) and were assessed at baseline and after 8-weeks of training. The DUP group performed a hypertrophy-workout on Monday, a power-workout on Wednesday, and a strength-workout on Friday. The last set of all 3 powerlift exercises was taken to failure during the strength workout such that the performance of this set dictated the working weight for each lift the following week. In contrast, the TDUP group emphasized one powerlift for each workout and completed their last set of their emphasized lift to failure. Data was analyzed via a 2x2 mixed factorial ANOVA with the alpha criterion for significance set at 0.05.

Results

There were no significant differences in total volume or intensity between groups. There was a main effect for time (p=0.008) for FFM (DUP pre=73.3±8.3 kg, DUP post=74.9±9.4 kg; TDUP pre=68.7±8.2 kg, TDUP post=69.6±8.6 kg). This was representative of a 1.2 kg average increase in FFM over 8 weeks. No significant effects for time were observed for FM (p=0.812; DUP pre= 9.1±4.3 kg, DUP post=9.6±4.8 kg; TDUP pre=9.5±4.3 kg, TDUP post=9.3±4.1 kg) or BF% (p=0.241; DUP pre=10.7±3.6%, DUP post=10.9±3.8%; TDUP pre=11.9±4.3%, TDUP post=11.5±3.8%) after 8 weeks. There were no interaction effects between the DUP and TDUP for any of the body composition variables assessed.

Conclusions

8-weeks of tiered DUP leads to comparable gains in FFM when compared to a traditional DUP program in trained males. This may be attributed to the fact that both groups performed similar volumes of work throughout the study. Specifically, DUP increased FFM by 1.6 kg, while TDUP increased FFM by 0.9 kg. Non-significant changes were observed for fat mass and BF% such that the DUP increased FM and BF% while the TDUP saw slight decreases in both variables.

Acknowledgements

This investigation was supported by Dymatize Athletic Nutrition Institute (DANI).

Correspondence: Trisha A. VanDusseldorp (tvanduss@kennesaw.edu)

Background

To examine the effect of fish oil (FO) supplementation on recovery of indirect markers of muscle damage following eccentric exercise.

Methods and Materials

Thirty-two, college-aged, resistance trained males (n = 16) and females (n = 16) supplemented with 2.0, 4.0, 6.0 g·d^-1 FO or placebo (PL) for 7 weeks. Participants then completed a muscle damaging resistance exercise protocol (10 sets of 8 four-second eccentric squats at 70% one-repetition maximum and 5 sets of 20 split-squat jumps). All subjects had blood drawn 8 times during the study: baseline (BL), pre-exercise (PRE), immediately post-exercise (IPE), and 2, 4, 24, 48 and 72 hours (HR) after exercise. Blood samples were collected for serum acquisition. The blood aliquots were centrifuged at 1650 g for 10 minutes and stored at -80 °C until time of analysis. Commercially available kits and a spectrophotometer (Spectramax M3, Molecular Devices) were used for the assessment of creatine kinase (CK; Pointe Scientific) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; Pars Azmoon).

Results

Group x time interactions were observed for CK (F = 2.63, p = 0.018, n2 = 0.22) and LDH (F = 4.00, p < 0.001, n2 = 0.30). Significant (p < 0.05) main effects for time were observed for all dosage groups in relation to BL and PRE concentrations (CK & LDH). Compared to PL (CK: 1804.9 ± 2034.8 IU/L; LDH: 410.0 ± 200.3 IU/L), CK tended (p = 0.055) to be lower at 72-HR for 6 g·d^-1 (114.3 ± 21.1 IU/L) while LDH tended to be lower for 6 g·d^-1 at 24-HR (194.2 ± 49.2 IU/L) and 48-HR (198.0 ± 55.0 IU/L) before significantly (p = 0.005) lower concentrations were observed at 72-HR (130.9 ± 28.3 IU/L). At 24-HR, lower (p = 0.020) CK concentrations were observed in 6 g·d^-1 (544.5 ± 150.8 IU/L) compared to 2 g·d^-1 (3020.6 ± 1753.4 IU/L). At 48-HR, CK concentrations tended (p = 0.076) to be lower in 6 g·d^-1 (261.1 ± 103.5 IU/L) compared to 4 g·d^-1 (2188.3 ± 2110.3 IU/L). At 72-HR, lower (p = 0.005) LDH concentrations were observed in 6 g·d^-1 compared to 2 g·d^-1 (412.1 ± 135.0 IU/L).

Conclusion

Ingestion of 6 g·d^-1 FO improves recovery of indirect markers of muscle damage following eccentric exercise.

Acknowledgments

Supported by the International Society of Sports Nutrition and MusclePharm Grant.

Correspondence: Vincent Martin

Background

Electrostimulation training (ES) can increase muscle power, but this aggressive modality of training may also increase muscle fatigue and possibly delay recovery (1). It has been demonstrated that Native whey (NW) supplementation, may reduce neuromuscular fatigue induced by strength training programs (2, 3).

The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the impact of NW supplementation and a training program consisting in ES and voluntary training, on recovery and training gains.

Material and methods

Forty-two moderately active men (21.5±3.2 years) were involved in this pilot, double-blinded trial and followed a 12-week training program; 6 weeks ES (3/week) and 6 weeks ES combined with plyometric and sprint training sessions (2-3/week). They were randomly allocated into 3 groups supplemented 5d/week with one of three isocaloric beverages; 30 g of carbohydrates (Control), or 15 g of carbohydrates and 15 g of protein from NW or from standard whey protein isolate (WPI).

Recovery of maximal concentric power (Pmax) was measured before, immediately after, and 30 min, 60 min, 24 h, 48 h after three ES sessions; the first (at week1 (W1)), the fourth (W2) and last (W12). Muscle performance was evaluated before (W0), after 6 (W6) and 12 weeks of training (W12); maximal voluntary contraction force (CMV), evoked twitch amplitude (Pt), anatomical cross-sectional area (CSA) and maximal voluntary activation level (VAL) of the knee extensors were measured.

Results

Pmax recovery was initiated at 30 min in NW, 24 h in WPI and 48 h in Control (P<0.01). Training gains also differed between groups, with CMV increase between W0 and W12 by +11.8% in NW (P<0.001), +7.1% in WPI (P<0.05), and no change in Control. However, between W6 and W12, only NW showed gains in CMV. VAL remained unchanged in NW throughout the follow-up, while it decreased at W12 in WPI (-3.5%, P<0.05), and at W6 and W12 in Control (-3.9%, P<0.05). Pt and CSA improved as a result of training, and did not differ between groups.

Conclusions

As suggested by these results, NW, as compared to WPI and Control, initiates power recovery process earlier. The strength gains observed along the entire training period in NW are possibly associated with this early recovery process, and could be explained not only by the muscle hypertrophy observed in all groups, but also by the preserved VAL, that decreased in WPI and Control, suggesting that overtraining occurred in these 2 groups

Author Disclosure Information

V. Martin : Contracted Research - Including Principle Investigator;

Study funded by Lactalis Ingredients.

References

1. Zory RF, Jubeau MM, and Maffiuletti NA : Contractile impairment after quadriceps strength training via electrical stimulation. Journal of strength and conditioning research 2010, 24(2):458-64.

2. Babault N, Deley G, Le Ruyet P, Morgan F, and Allaert FA : Effects of soluble milk protein or casein supplementation on muscle fatigue following resistance training program: a randomized, double-blind, and controlcebo-controlled study. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 2014, 11-36.

3. Gryson C, Ratel S, Rance M, Penando S, Bonhomme C, Le Ruyet P, Duclos M, Boirie Y, and Walrand S : Four-month course of soluble milk proteins interacts with exercise to improve muscle strength and delay fatigue in elderly participants. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association 2014, 15(12):958e1-9.