Maryke Meyer, Elmine du Toit, Riette Nel, Derik Coetzee
{"title":"Macronutrient requirements and intake by professional male rugby players.","authors":"Maryke Meyer, Elmine du Toit, Riette Nel, Derik Coetzee","doi":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2479709","DOIUrl":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2479709","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Rugby union is a high-contact team sport where professional rugby players are exposed to considerable training and game loads in pre-season and in-season. Some studies have shown that rugby players' dietary intake remains inadequate for the three macronutrients (carbohydrates [CHO], proteins and fats) required for optimal performance. This study aimed to describe the macronutrient intake of professional male rugby players at Zebre Rugby Club in Parma, Italy, during in-season, and to compare players' macronutrient intake to international recommendations.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Thirty-four professional male rugby players participated in the cross-sectional study. A self-developed questionnaire, a food frequency questionnaire and food records (on training and competition days and off day) were used to investigate players' macronutrient intake. Anthropometric measurements were obtained using the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) standardized techniques. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and associations were investigated using chi-square, Fisher's exact and Wilcoxon rank tests as applicable.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The players' median age was 25.8 years (range 20.6-33.0 years) and 47.5% were Italian. Most players (64.7%) held forward positions and had a median of 5 years (range 2-14 years) of professional experience. More than 75.0% of players lived with a spouse or partner and 30.3% earned between 4 000-4 999 euros per month. The median body weight and height of players were 106.9 kg and 186.3 cm, respectively. The forwards weighed heavier (<i>p</i> < 0.0001) than the backs, which was expected due to positional demands, with no significant difference in height distribution. The median body mass index (<i>p</i> < 0.0001), waist circumference (<i>p</i> < 0.001) and waist-to-height ratio (<i>p</i> < 0.03) of forwards were higher than the backs. Additionally, the median body fat percentage of all players exceeded the international recommendation of 8-17% for rugby union players. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), International Olympic Committee (IOC) and International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) recommend an intake of 5.0-8.0 g/kg body weight (BW)/day CHO, 1.5-2.0 g/kg BW/day proteins and 20-35% total energy (TE) from fats for rugby players. The overall median intake of the three-day food records for all the players was 2.7 g/kg BW CHO, 1.7 g/kg BW protein and 35.1% TE from fat. On each of the three reported days, 90.0% of players' CHO intake fell below the recommended range, with almost all players (>90.0%) consuming less than the recommended amount of carbohydrates and almost 30.0% of players consuming below the recommended amount of protein on competition day. At least 50.0% of players' protein and fat intake was within the recommended range on each of the three reported days.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The study's findings can assist","PeriodicalId":17400,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition","volume":"22 1","pages":"2479709"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11921163/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143657537","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Stig Mattsson, Fredrik Edin, Jonny Trinh, Peter Adolfsson, Johan Jendle, Stefan Pettersson
{"title":"Impact of carbohydrate timing on glucose metabolism and substrate oxidation following high-intensity evening aerobic exercise in athletes: a randomized controlled study.","authors":"Stig Mattsson, Fredrik Edin, Jonny Trinh, Peter Adolfsson, Johan Jendle, Stefan Pettersson","doi":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2494839","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/15502783.2025.2494839","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>The study aimed to investigate the impact of nutrient timing in relation to evening exercise. Specifically, it examined the effects of pre- or post-exercise carbohydrate (CHO) ingestion on glucose metabolism, glucose regulation, and overall substrate oxidation in well-trained athletes during and after physical exercise (PE), spanning the nocturnal period and the subsequent morning.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Ten male endurance cyclists participated in the study. The initial assessments included body composition measurements and an incremental cycle test to determine maximal oxygen uptake (<math><mrow><mrow><mover><mi>V</mi><mo>˙</mo></mover></mrow></mrow></math>O2 max) and maximum power output (Wmax). Following this, participants underwent a control (rest previous day) oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and a familiarization exercise trial that had two objectives: (1) to establish the appropriate amount of CHO to use in the pre- or post-exercise drink during the experimental trials, and (2) to familiarize participants with the equipment and study protocol. In the three days prior to both the control and experimental trials, participants followed a standardized, individualized diet designed to meet their energy needs. During the experimental trials, participants completed two separate evening exercise sessions (50 min@70%Wmax + ~24 min time-trial (TT)) with either pre- or post-exercise CHO ingestion (253 ± 52 g), matching the CHO oxidized during exercise. The CHO drink and a volume-matched placebo (PLA) drink (containing no energy) were randomly assigned to be consumed two hours before and directly after the experimental exercise sessions. Post-exercise nocturnal interstitial glucose levels (24:00-06:00) were continuously monitored, and a 120-min OGTT was conducted the following morning to assess substrate oxidation rates and glucose control.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Pre-exercise CHO intake significantly lowered capillary glucose levels during steady-state exercise (mean difference 0.41 ± 0.27 mmol/L, <i>p</i> = 0.001) without affecting perceived exertion and TT-performance. No difference was observed in nocturnal glucose regulation (00:00-06:00) regardless of whether CHO was consumed before or after exercise. Post-exercise CHO ingestion reduced glucose tolerance during the OGTT compared to the iso-caloric pre-exercise CHO intake (mean difference 0.76 ± 0.21 mmol/L, <i>p</i> = 0.017). However, a post-exercise CHO intake improved respiratory exchange ratio/metabolic flexibility (MetF) significantly. Enhanced MetF during the first OGTT hour after post-exercise CHO ingestion resulted in 70% and 91% higher CHO oxidation compared to pre-exercise CHO and control, respectively (<i>p</i> ≤ 0.029). Average 120-min OGTT fat oxidation rates were higher with both pre- and post-exercise CHO ingestion compared to control (<i>p</i> ≤ 0.008), with no difference between pre- and post-exercise CHO intake.</p><p><strong>Co","PeriodicalId":17400,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition","volume":"22 1","pages":"2494839"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12016275/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144017268","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Anna Broniecka, Aleksandra Sarachman, Aleksandra Zagrodna, Anna Książek
{"title":"Dietary supplement use and knowledge among athletes: prevalence, compliance with AIS classification, and awareness of certification programs.","authors":"Anna Broniecka, Aleksandra Sarachman, Aleksandra Zagrodna, Anna Książek","doi":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2496450","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/15502783.2025.2496450","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The use of dietary supplements is widespread among athletes, with intake influenced by factors such as sport-discipline, competitive level, and gender. The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) has categorized supplements based on scientific evidence regarding their efficacy and safety. Despite extensive global research on dietary supplement use among athletes, data on Polish athletes remain limited. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate supplement use among Polish athletes, considering their competitive level and gender. Additionally, it assessed whether athletes select supplements in accordance with the AIS classification and examined their awareness of supplement certification programs.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This cross-sectional study included 659 Polish athletes (309 women, 350 men) from various sports, representing both professional (57.7%) and nonprofessional (42.3%) levels. An online questionnaire was used to assess dietary supplement consumption, sources of information regarding supplementation, and knowledge of anti-doping and supplement certification programs. Supplement use was categorized according to the AIS classification (Groups A - D). Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and Mann - Whitney U tests, were conducted to evaluate differences between professional and nonprofessional athletes, as well as between male and female participants.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A high prevalence of dietary supplement use (91.1%) was observed among Polish athletes, with no significant differences between professional (95.8%) and nonprofessional (94.3%) athletes or between men (92.0%) and women (90.0%). The most frequently consumed supplements were sports drinks (63.9%), electrolyte supplements (51.6%), and isolated protein supplements (54.6%), vitamin D (71.6%), vitamin C (59.8%), with significantly higher intake among professional athletes. Male athletes were more likely than females to consume caffeine (<i>p</i> < 0.001), creatine (<i>p</i> < 0.001), and β-alanine (<i>p</i> < 0.001). Melatonin use was significantly higher among professionals (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Awareness of WADA regulations was moderate (72.7%), but knowledge of supplement certification programs was low, with only 18.2% of professional athletes familiar with Informed Sport, and 10.7% with the Cologne List. Social media was the most common source of supplement information (41.9%), while only 17.6% of athletes consulted qualified specialists in sports nutrition and supplementation area.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This study highlights the widespread use of dietary supplements among Polish athletes, irrespective of competitive level or gender. While many athletes select supplements from AIS Group A, their knowledge of AIS classification and supplement certification programs remains limited. The high reliance on social media for supplement information, combined with the lack of professional guidance, underscores the ","PeriodicalId":17400,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition","volume":"22 1","pages":"2496450"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12016268/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144010943","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Joel Puente-Fernández, Eneko Larumbe-Zabala, Justin Roberts, Fernando Naclerio
{"title":"Pre-workout multi-ingredients or carbohydrate alone promote similar resistance training outcomes in middle-aged adults: a double-blind, randomized controlled trial.","authors":"Joel Puente-Fernández, Eneko Larumbe-Zabala, Justin Roberts, Fernando Naclerio","doi":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2519515","DOIUrl":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2519515","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Pre-workout multi-ingredients are designed to enhance energy levels and acutely increase exercise performance. This study compared the effectiveness of ingesting an admixture providing caffeinated ingredients and plant-based protein enriched with amino acids versus carbohydrates alone on body composition, hypertrophy and physical performance.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Forty-three middle-aged physically active individuals (26 peri- and post-menopausal females and 17 males) completed the study after being randomly assigned to one of the following intervention groups: pre-workout (PREW <i>n</i> = 24, 54 ± 4 years, body mass 77.6 ± 16.0 kg) or a carbohydrate-only comparator (COMP <i>n</i> = 19, 52 ± 4 years, body mass 80.6 ± 16.0 kg). Measurement of fat and fat-free mass (via plethysmography), waist and hip circumferences, muscle thickness (via ultrasound), strength, power output and muscle endurance performance were collected before and after a 6-week resistance training programme performed 3 times per week. Treatment consisted of ingesting 30g of the assigned supplement, mixed with 400mL of plain water, 15min before each workout session.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Both groups significantly (<i>p</i> < 0.05) reduced fat mass (mean ± SD) (PREW -1.4 ± 1.6 kg; COMP -1.0 ± 1.5 kg), increased fat-free mass (PREW +0.9 ± 1.1 kg; COMP + 0.8 ± 0.9 kg); vastus lateralis (PREW +0.2 ± 0.2 cm; COMP + 0.1 ± 0.6 cm), and elbow flexors (PREW +0.5 ± 0.3 cm; COMP + 0.4 ± 0.2 cm) muscle thickness. Only the PREW group showed a significant reduction in the waist circumference (-1.8 ± 1.8 cm, <i>p</i> < 0.01). However, no significant differences between groups (PREW vs. COMP) were identified at post-intervention. Isometric force, countermovement jump, medicine ball throw, and upper and lower body muscle endurance performance improved (<i>p</i> < 0.05) for both treatments, with no difference between groups.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Except for waist circumference reduction, ingesting a pre-workout vegan protein-based caffeinated supplement promotes no further resistance training benefits in middle-aged individuals.</p>","PeriodicalId":17400,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition","volume":"22 1","pages":"2519515"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12168407/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144285109","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Association between caffeine intake and fat free mass index: a retrospective cohort study.","authors":"Ya-Lan Tian, Xin Liu, Meng-Yao Yang, Yu-Han Wu, Fu-Qiang Yin, Zhen-Tong Zhang, Chao Zhang","doi":"10.1080/15502783.2024.2445607","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/15502783.2024.2445607","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Caffeine, identified as a central nervous system stimulant in foods, beverages (coffee, tea, chocolate), and medications, has been focused on its ergogenic properties, enhancing physical performance. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the caffeine intake (from coffee) and fat-free mass index (FFMI).</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>We carried out a cohort study that included 3,466 women and 3,145 men aged ≥20 years who were intaking caffeine. Caffeine intake from coffee were obtained from two 24-hour dietary recall interviews. The FFMI was calculated as FFM (kg) divided by height in m<sup>2</sup>. The caffeine intake was classified into quartiles and combined into 4 groups. Multiple linear regression model analysis and multiple logistic regression model analysis were used to assess associations between the caffeine and FFMI adjusted for potential confounders.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Among the 2,427 participants, males accounted for 52.4%, and females 47.6%. In multiple linear regression model, Model 1 (unadjusted Model (<i>p</i> = 0.041)) and Model 2 (adjusted for age, race, and BMI (<i>p</i> = 0.006)) in women showed a significant relationship between caffeine intake and FFMI. In multivariable models, caffeine intake and FFMI were significantly different (<i>p</i> < 0.05). In sex subgroups, among females, each quartile of caffeine intake was positively correlated with FFMI levels in the average FFMI group in Model 3 (<i>p</i> < 0.001). In age subgroups, each quartile of caffeine intake was positively correlated with FFMI levels in the average FFMI group in Model 3 for individuals aged 20-40 (<i>p</i> = 0.039) and those aged above 40 (<i>p</i> = 0.016). In drinking status subgroups, if they drunk alcohol, each quartile was positively correlated with FFMI levels in the average FFMI group in Model 3 (<i>p</i> < 0.001).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Caffeine intake was mainly positively associated with FFMI, especially in women with above levels of FFMI. Longitudinal studies and randomized controlled trials are needed to establish causality and provide evidence-based recommendations regarding caffeine intake to optimize muscle health.</p>","PeriodicalId":17400,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition","volume":"22 1","pages":"2445607"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142871850","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ralf Jäger, Jeffery L Heileson, Sidney Abou Sawan, Broderick L Dickerson, Megan Leonard, Richard B Kreider, Chad M Kerksick, Stephen M Cornish, Darren G Candow, Dean M Cordingley, Scott C Forbes, Grant M Tinsley, Tindaro Bongiovanni, Roberto Cannataro, Bill I Campbell, Shawn M Arent, Jeffrey R Stout, Douglas S Kalman, Jose Antonio
{"title":"International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Long-Chain Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids.","authors":"Ralf Jäger, Jeffery L Heileson, Sidney Abou Sawan, Broderick L Dickerson, Megan Leonard, Richard B Kreider, Chad M Kerksick, Stephen M Cornish, Darren G Candow, Dean M Cordingley, Scott C Forbes, Grant M Tinsley, Tindaro Bongiovanni, Roberto Cannataro, Bill I Campbell, Shawn M Arent, Jeffrey R Stout, Douglas S Kalman, Jose Antonio","doi":"10.1080/15502783.2024.2441775","DOIUrl":"10.1080/15502783.2024.2441775","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Position Statement: The International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) presents this position based on a critical examination of the literature surrounding the effects of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (ω-3 PUFA) supplementation on exercise performance, recovery, and brain health. This position stand is intended to provide a scientific foundation for athletes, dietitians, trainers, and other practitioners regarding the effects of supplemental ω-3 PUFA in healthy and athletic populations. The following conclusions represent the official position of the ISSN: Athletes may be at a higher risk for ω-3 PUFA insufficiency.Diets rich in ω-3 PUFA, including supplements, are effective strategies for increasing ω-3 PUFA levels.ω-3 PUFA supplementation, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has been shown to enhance endurance capacity and cardiovascular function during aerobic-type exercise.ω-3 PUFA supplementation may not confer a muscle hypertrophic benefit in young adults.ω-3 PUFA supplementation in combination with resistance training may improve strength in a dose- and duration-dependent manner.ω-3 PUFA supplementation may decrease subjective measures of muscle soreness following intense exercise.ω-3 PUFA supplementation can positively affect various immune cell responses in athletic populations.Prophylactic ω-3 PUFA supplementation may offer neuroprotective benefits in athletes exposed to repeated head impacts.ω-3 PUFA supplementation is associated with improved sleep quality.ω-3 PUFA are classified as prebiotics; however, studies on the gut microbiome and gut health in athletes are currently lacking.</p>","PeriodicalId":17400,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition","volume":"22 1","pages":"2441775"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11737053/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142983981","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Muzi Liu, Shiguo Gong, Xin Sheng, Zihong Zhang, Xichun Wang
{"title":"Bioinformatic identification of important roles of COL1A1 and TNFRSF12A in cartilage injury and osteoporosis.","authors":"Muzi Liu, Shiguo Gong, Xin Sheng, Zihong Zhang, Xichun Wang","doi":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2454641","DOIUrl":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2454641","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>The aim of this study was to identify the key regulatory mechanisms of cartilage injury and osteoporosis through bioinformatics methods, and to provide a new theoretical basis and molecular targets for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Microarray data for cartilage injury (GSE129147) and osteoporosis (GSE230665) were first downloaded from the GEO database. Differential expression analysis was applied to identify genes that were significantly up-or down-regulated in the cartilage injury and osteoporosis samples. These genes were subjected to GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis. In addition, we employed SVA and RRA methods to merge the two sets of data, eliminating batch effects and enhancing the statistical power of the analysis. Through WGCNA, we identified gene modules that were closely associated with disease phenotypes and then screened for key genes that intersected with differentially expressed genes. The diagnostic value of these genes as potential biomarkers was evaluated by ROC analysis. Moreover, we performed an immune infiltration analysis to explore the correlation between these core genes and immune cell infiltration.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>We performed GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis of genes significantly up-or down-regulated in cartilage injury and osteoporosis samples. Important biological processes, cellular components and molecular functions, and key metabolic or signaling pathways associated with osteoporosis and cartilage injury were identified. Through WGCNA, we identified gene modules that were closely associated with the disease phenotype, from which we then screened for key genes that intersected with differentially expressed genes. Ultimately, we focused on two identified core genes, COL1A1 and TNFRSF12A, and assessed the diagnostic value of these genes as potential biomarkers by ROC analysis. Meanwhile, GSVA provided an in-depth view of the role of these genes in disease-specific biological pathways. Immune infiltration analysis further revealed the possible key role of COL1A1 and TNFRSF12A in regulating immune cell infiltration in osteoporosis and cartilage injury.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>COL1A1 and TNFRSF12A as key regulatory molecules in osteoporosis and cartilage injury.</p>","PeriodicalId":17400,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition","volume":"22 1","pages":"2454641"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11758804/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143029111","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Christina Karpouzi, Antigoni Kypraiou, Vassilis Mougios, Anatoli Petridou
{"title":"Effects of protein supplementation during pilates training on body composition, core muscle endurance, and joint flexibility in trained women: a randomized controlled trial.","authors":"Christina Karpouzi, Antigoni Kypraiou, Vassilis Mougios, Anatoli Petridou","doi":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2472891","DOIUrl":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2472891","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Pilates is a popular type of exercise, aimed at improving core muscle strength and endurance, core stability, and joint flexibility through a variety of whole-body exercises. Research has shown that Pilates improves body composition, muscle endurance, and joint flexibility. Adequate protein intake is a key factor in supporting the adaptive response of skeletal muscle to exercise training. However, whether protein supplementation augments the adaptations to Pilates training remains unknown. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of protein supplementation during Pilates training on body composition, core muscle endurance, and joint flexibility in trained women.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Nineteen Pilates-trained women (31 ± 9 y) performed 10 weeks of Pilates training using the Reformer and Cadillac apparatuses, at least 2 times per week. Participants were randomly allocated to either a placebo (<i>n</i> = 10) or protein supplementation group (<i>n</i> = 9) in a quadruple-blind (participants, intervention providers, investigators, and outcome assessors) design. Participants received 0.6 g of maltodextrin or whey protein per kg body weight daily, respectively. Habitual dietary intake was monitored throughout the study. Before and after the intervention, anthropometric measures (body weight, body mass index, waist and hip circumferences), body composition [through full-scan dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)], core muscle endurance (through the McGill's torso muscular endurance test battery), and joint flexibility (through the sit-and-reach test) were assessed. Data were analyzed by 2-way ANOVA (supplement × time) with repeated measures on time. Common DXA and BIA variables (whole-body fat and lean mass) were compared through paired Student's t tests and subjected to Pearson's correlation analysis. The level of statistical significance was set at α = 0.05.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Participants received, on average, 1.3 g protein/kg body weight/day from their habitual diet. After 10 weeks of Pilates training and regardless of supplementation, body fat (assessed by BIA) and hip circumference decreased; lean mass, total water, and extracellular water (by BIA) increased; and arm lean mass, trunk bone mineral content, and trunk bone area (by DXA) increased (all <i>p</i> < 0.05). The common BIA and DXA variables were highly correlated (<i>r</i> > 0.78, <i>p</i> < 0.001) and did not differ pre-intervention (<i>p</i> > 0.1), although they differed post-intervention (<i>p</i> < 0.001), with BIA overestimating lean mass compared with DXA. Core muscle endurance and joint flexibility increased with training (<i>p</i> < 0.05), with no effect of supplementation.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Ten weeks of Pilates training improved core muscle endurance, joint flexibility, and aspects of body composition in healthy trained women, ","PeriodicalId":17400,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition","volume":"22 1","pages":"2472891"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11869336/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143516024","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Yiheng Liang, Yuxuan Li, Yan Chen, Kun Meng, Fanyang Zhou, Yiran Pei, Yong Liu, Junqiang Qiu
{"title":"The impact of low energy availability risk on pre-competition physiological function in Chinese female combat athletes.","authors":"Yiheng Liang, Yuxuan Li, Yan Chen, Kun Meng, Fanyang Zhou, Yiran Pei, Yong Liu, Junqiang Qiu","doi":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2490170","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/15502783.2025.2490170","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Low energy availability (LEA) can negatively impact athletes' physiological function and performance. This study aims to examine the prevalence of LEA in Chinese female combat athletes and monitor changes in physiological function and performance during the pre-competition period.</p><p><strong>Method: </strong>We assessed the incidence of low energy availability (LEA) and eating disorder (ED) risks in 84 female combat athletes (judo, freestyle wrestling, and sanda) from Beijing using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q) and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). From this group, 11 judo athletes who were preparing for competition were selected and divided into a low energy availability (LEA) group and a non-LEA group based on their energy availability levels. Dietary intake, training energy expenditure, body composition, resting metabolic rate, blood markers, and special judo fitness tests were monitored at 4 weeks, 2 weeks, and 0 weeks before the competition.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Among the 84 athletes, 45.2% of athletes (<i>n</i> = 38) were at increased risk of LEA, and 21.4% of athletes (<i>n</i> = 18) were classified as high in eating disorder risk. There were no significant differences in LEA and ED risk between elite and recreational athletes. Among the 11 athletes preparing for competition, 6 athletes (45.5%) were in a state of LEA at the initial stage (4 weeks before the competition), and by the competition week, all 11 athletes exhibited LEA. Additionally, athletes in the LEA group experienced significant reductions in VO<sub>2</sub> and resting metabolic rate at 0 week of the competition compared to 4 weeks prior (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Thyroid function indicators and IGF-1 levels of LEA group also significantly decreased (<i>p</i> < 0.05). After completing the four-week pre-competition weight loss, heart rate recovery during the special judo fitness test improved significantly in both the LEA and non-LEA groups (<i>p</i> < 0.05).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The current study identified a risk of LEA among Chinese female combat sport athletes, with no significant difference in the prevalence of LEA between elite and recreational athletes. It is essential for Chinese coaches and sports medicine staff to implement LEA-related nutritional education across all performance levels. Moreover, preventive measures during training are recommended to mitigate the impact of LEA on physiological function during the pre-competition weight loss phase.</p>","PeriodicalId":17400,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition","volume":"22 1","pages":"2490170"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12013142/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143999606","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Impact of sports nutrition education on awareness and knowledge among physical education majors and workers.","authors":"Kyu-Lim Lee, Jun-Young Sung","doi":"10.1080/15502783.2025.2498485","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/15502783.2025.2498485","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>This study aimed to investigate the current status and perceptions of nutrition education among sports majors and workers in Korea to provide information that can be utilized in educational curriculums of universities and other external institutions for sports nutrition education.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This study included Korean adults aged over 19 years who majored in physical education at a university. The questionnaire consisted of questions regarding demographic characteristics (10 questions), nutritional awareness (20 questions), and the General Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire (GNKQ, 88 questions). This survey was conducted entirely online using simple random sampling, and 706 responses were included in the final data analysis. An independent sample t-test and one-way ANOVA were conducted to confirm group differences. Post hoc pairwise comparisons with a Tukey adjustment were conducted. The statistical significance level for all data was set at <i>p</i> < 0.05.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Approximately 42% of the participants completed nutrition classes at the university and 19.4% at other institutions. The assessment of their nutritional knowledge level was 3.06 ± 1.08 points (<i>p</i> < 0.001) on a 5-point Likert scale, with participants who had completed nutrition classes scoring higher (<i>p</i> < 0.001).The GNKQ also found that participants who received nutrition classes scored higher in all sections, including the total scores (total score, <i>p</i> = 0.011; one section, <i>p</i> = 0.030; three sections, <i>p</i> < 0.001).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Nutrition is a crucial aspect that cannot be excluded from physical education. Therefore, government and university institutions must increase lecture hours and hands-on opportunities by incorporating diverse educational curricula in physical education-related departments. This approach will help create a safer and more systematic sports environment and positively impact healthcare policies.</p>","PeriodicalId":17400,"journal":{"name":"Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition","volume":"22 1","pages":"2498485"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12042232/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143971175","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}