Efficacy of Pilates exercises and supplementation with Camellia sinensis extract in body composition of female patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Background and objective: Evidence suggests that the intake of functional foods, such as Camellia sinensis extract (CSE), and Pilates exercises could play a key role in reducing the risk for metabolic syndrome. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of Pilates exercises and supplementation with CSE in body composition of female patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Subjects and methods: A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted with postmenopausal participants meeting the diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome. A total of 50 participants were randomized into four groups: Pilates + CSE (n = 14); Pilates + Placebo (n = 11); CSE (n = 11), and Placebo (n = 14). Intervention groups (CSE and Pilates + CSE) were given a capsule containing 500 mg of CSE every day for 24 weeks. The placebo group received one capsule containing placebo for 24 weeks. The 60-minute Pilates exercises were performed twice a week for 24 weeks. Body composition at baseline and after intevention was assessed. This study protocol was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee of Pontifical Catholic University. Results: The mean lean mass and percentage lean mass of the Pilates + CSE and Pilates + Placebo groups were significantly higher than those of the CSE and Placebo groups (P < 0.05). There was a reduction in percentage fat mass and fat mass in the Pilates + CSE and Pilates + Placebo groups compared with the Placebo group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Pilates exercises with or without supplementation with CSE can improve the body composition in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome. Trial registration: N° registro ReBEC:RBR-2sgtn2.