Resistance and endurance training in intermittent hypoxia reduce body fat mass and blood pressure.

BACKGROUND: Hypoxia is an environmental condition that occurs in sports performed at high altitude. Adaptation to hypoxia is accompanied by changes in body composition and cardiac function that could impair sport performance in altitude. These changes concern mainly to a reduction in muscle mass and an increased heart rate. In this context, a resistance training protocol in a normobaric hypoxia chamber has been implemented. Therefore, the aim of this study was to study the changes in body composition and cardiovascular variables after a training period in intermittent hypoxia. METHODS: A single-blind experimental study was carried out for 3 weeks. Thirty-two participants were distributed in a control group resistance training in normoxia (N) at sea level and an experimental group resistance training in intermittent hypoxia (IH) between a simulated 5100-5800m during 15 sessions with a controlled diet. Anthropometry according to ISAK was used to determine body composition. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures and other cardiovascular parameters were monitored. RESULTS: IH showed a reduction in body fat (from 8.9±1.9% to 8.2±1.7%) compared to N (from 8.4±1.5% to 8.1±1.4%) (P<0.001). In addition, significant changes in blood pressure were observed at the end compared to the beginning of the intervention in the IH (from 124.7±10.2 to 116.9±8.3 mmHg and 68.3±8.8 to 62.4±5.7 mmHg in systolic a diastolic blood pressure respectively). In addition, resting heart rate was significantly reduced in IH. However, partial oxygen saturation displayed no changes in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Altogether, the training protocol in intermittent hypoxia performed in the present report allowed to adjust body weight through fat mass reduction but maintaining muscle mass. In addition, a decrease in blood pressure and basal heart rate was observed.

Inclusion of resistance routines in a hypoxia training program does not interfere with prevention of acute mountain sickness.

OBJECTIVES: Acclimatization strategies have been shown to be the best solutions to avoid acute mountain sickness. In this context, we have designed a protocol performed in hypoxia that includes resistance routines in combination with classical endurance training exercises with mountain trekking at mid altitude. METHODS: Thirty-two volunteers preparing different mountain expeditions participated in the study distributed into two groups. One group trained at 2000 m, while another group trained at 4500-5800 m of simulated altitude in a hypoxic chamber. Acute mountain sickness was monitored by answering the Lake Louise Scale questionnaire during 2 sleeping sessions at 4800 m of simulated altitude at the beginning and at the end of the study. At the same time, oxygen saturation was determined in both groups to monitor physiologic adaptation. Data were also collected from the base camps in each expedition before ascension. RESULTS: Acute mountain sickness incidence in the hypoxic group decreased from 100% at the beginning to 12% of individuals at the end of the training period, and it was 25% at the base camps of expeditions. On the other hand, the control group passed from 100% to 88% of individuals at the end of the intervention and 70% at the base camps. At the same time, acute mountain sickness severity was mild in the experimental group compared to moderate-severe in the control group. These data were supported by the oxygen saturation values, indicating adequate adaptation changes for altitude in the hypoxic group. CONCLUSION: The inclusion of resistance workouts in combination with endurance exercises, all performed in hypoxic conditions, does not interfere with an optimal adaptation to altitude and to prevent acute mountain sickness.

Anthropometric profile, body composition, and somatotype in stand-up paddle (SUP) boarding international athletes: a cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: the anthropometric characteristics of international stand-up paddle (SUP) boarders are relevant aspects when it comes to their performance. However, very little research has been carried out within this sport, almost none regarding the body composition and anthropometric characteristics of SUP practitioners. Therefore, the aim of this research will be to describe the anthropometric profile of international SUP boarders. Material and methods: a cross-sectional design in thirty-one international SUP boarders (34.2 ± 12.4 years). Height, body mass, 8 skinfolds, 2 bone diameters, and 5 perimeters were measured, and corrected perimeters were calculated by the same two level-2 internationally certified anthropometrists. Anthropometric measurements were taken following the International Society of Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) protocol. Body fat mass (FM) was calculated using Carter, Faulkner, Yuhasz, and Withers equations, whereas muscle mass (MM) was estimated using the Lee 2000 equation. Somatotype was calculated by applying the Heath and Carter equation. Bioimpedance (BIA) measurements were also recorded. Results: international SUP athletes had a body mass of 74.6 (6.6) kg, a body fat percentage of 7.6 % (2.1 %) (Carter), 11.3 % (3.5 %) (Faulkner), 7.6 % (2.1 %) (Yuhasz), and 9.0 % (3.6 %) (Whiters), and skinfold sums of 48.2 (20.6) mm for 6, and 57.8 (22.2) mm for 8 skinfolds. Muscle mass was 47.3 % (2.6 %) and somatotype was ecto-mesomorphic with values of 1.9 (0.9) for endomorphy, 5.4 (1.0) for mesomorphy, and 2.4 (0.9) for ectomorphy. BIA results for FM were 11.7 % (4.4 %), and for MM were 50.0 % (2.9 %). Conclusion: these results suggest that a low body fat percentage and high muscle mass are representative characteristics of international stand-up paddlers, as well as a balanced mesomorphic somatotype. According to these, a low skindfold sum and high arm muscle mass may represent key factors for performance in this sport because of their relation to acceleration and stroke force.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: las características antropométricas de los atletas internacionales de stand-up paddle (SUP) son aspectos relevantes para su rendimiento. Sin embargo, se han realizado muy pocas investigaciones dentro de este deporte, y casi ninguna cuando se trata de la composición corporal y las características antropométricas de los palistas de SUP. El objetivo de esta investigación será describir el perfil antropométrico de los palistas internacionales de SUP. Material y métodos: se reunieron 31 internacionales de SUP (34,2 ± 12,4 años). Se midieron la altura, la masa corporal, 8 pliegues de piel, 2 diámetros de huesos y 5 perímetros, y se corrigieron otros 2 perímetros, por los mismos dos antropometristas certificados como ISAK 2. Las mediciones antropométricas se realizaron siguiendo el protocolo de la Sociedad Internacional para el Avance de la Cinantropometría (ISAK). La masa grasa (FM) se calculó utilizando las ecuaciones de Carter, Faulkner, Yuhasz y Withers, mientras que la masa muscular (MM) se calculó utilizando la ecuación de Lee 2000. El somatotipo se obtuvo aplicando la ecuación de Heath y Carter. Se registraron también las mediciones mediante bioimpedancia (BIA). Resultados: los atletas internacionales de SUP tenían una masa corporal de 74,6 (6,6) kg, un porcentaje de grasa corporal de 7,6 % (2,1 %) (Carter), 11,3 % (3,5 %) (Faulkner), 7,6 % (2,1 %) (Yuhasz) y 9,0 % (3,6 %) (Whiters) y sumas de pliegues cutáneos de 48,2 (20,6) mm para 6, y 57,8 (22,2) mm para 8 pliegues cutáneos. La masa muscular era del 47,3 % (2,6 %) y el somatotipo era ectomesomórfico con valores de 1,9 (0,9) para la endomorfia, 5,4 (1,0) para la mesomorfia y 2,4 (0,9) para la ectomorfia. Los resultados de la BIA fueron del 11,7 % (4,4 %) para la FM y del 50,0 % (2,9 %) para la MM. Conclusión: estos resultados sugieren que un bajo porcentaje de grasa y un elevado porcentaje de masa muscular, junto a un somatotipo mesomórfico equilibrado, son características antropométricas representativas de los atletas internacionales de SUP. Así mismo, y de acuerdo con estos resultados, un bajo sumatorio de pliegues y una elevada masa muscular del brazo pueden ser factores clave en el rendimiento de este deporte, debido a su relación con la aceleración y la fuerza de la palada.

Effects of 120 vs. 60 and 90 g/h Carbohydrate Intake during a Trail Marathon on Neuromuscular Function and High Intensity Run Capacity Recovery.

BACKGROUND: Current carbohydrate (CHO) intake recommendations for ultra-trail activities lasting more than 2.5 h is 90 g/h. However, the benefits of ingesting 120 g/h during a mountain marathon in terms of post-exercise muscle damage have been recently demonstrated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze and compare the effects of 120 g/h CHO intake with the recommendations (90 g/h) and the usual intake for ultra-endurance athletes (60 g/h) during a mountain marathon on internal exercise load, and post-exercise neuromuscular function and recovery of high intensity run capacity. METHODS: Twenty-six elite trail-runners were randomly distributed into three groups: LOW (60 g/h), MED (90 g/h) and HIGH (120 g/h), according to CHO intake during a 4000-m cumulative slope mountain marathon. Runners were measured using the Abalakov Jump test, a maximum a half-squat test and an aerobic power-capacity test at baseline (T1) and 24 h after completing the race (T2). RESULTS: Changes in Abalakov jump time (ABKJT), Abalakov jump height (ABKH), half-squat test 1 repetition maximum (HST1RM) between T1 and T2 showed significant differences by Wilcoxon signed rank test only in LOW and MED (p < 0.05), but not in the HIGH group (p > 0.05). Internal load was significantly lower in the HIGH group (p = 0.017) regarding LOW and MED by Mann Whitney u test. A significantly lower change during the study in ABKJT (p = 0.038), ABKH (p = 0.038) HST1RM (p = 0.041) and in terms of fatigue (p = 0.018) and lactate (p = 0.012) within the aerobic power-capacity test was presented in HIGH relative to LOW and MED. CONCLUSIONS: 120 g/h CHO intake during a mountain marathon might limit neuromuscular fatigue and improve recovery of high intensity run capacity 24 h after a physiologically challenging event when compared to 90 g/h and 60 g/h.

Effects of 120 g/h of Carbohydrates Intake during a Mountain Marathon on Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Elite Runners.

Background-exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) and internal exercise load are increased after competing in ultraendurance events such as mountain marathons. Adequate carbohydrate (CHO) intake during exercise optimizes athletic performance and could limit EIMD, reduce internal exercise load and, thus, improve recovery. Therefore, the aim of this study was to research into and compare the effects of high CHO intake (120 g/h) in terms of CHO intake recommendation (90 g/h) and regular CHO intake performed by ultraendurance athletes (60 g/h) during a mountain marathon, on exercise load and EIMD markers (creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), urea and creatinine). Materials and Methods-a randomized trial was carried out on 20 male elite runners who had previously undertaken nutritional and gut training, and who consumed different CHO dosages according to experimental (EXP-120 g/h), control (CON-90 g/h) and low CHO intake (LOW-60 g/h) groups during a ~4000 m cumulative slope mountain marathon. EIMD markers were analyzed before the race and 24 h afterwards. Internal exercise load was calculated based on rate of perceived exertion (RPE) during and after the marathon event. Results-internal exercise load during the mountain marathon was significantly lower (p = 0.019; η2p = 0.471) in EXP (3805 ± 281 AU) compared to LOW (4688 ± 705 AU) and CON (4692 ± 716 AU). Moreover, results revealed that the EXP group evidenced significantly lower CK (p = 0.019; η2p = 0.373), LDH (p < 0.001; η2p = 0.615) and GOT (p = 0.003; η2p = 0.500) values 24 h after the mountain marathon race compared to LOW and CON. Along these lines, EIMD and exercise load evidenced a close correlation (R = 0.742; p < 0.001). Conclusion: High CHO intake (120 g/h) during a mountain marathon could limit the EIMD observed by CK, LDH and GOT and internal exercise load compared to CHO ingestion of 60 and 90 g/h.

Caffeine Supplementation and Physical Performance, Muscle Damage and Perception of Fatigue in Soccer Players: A Systematic Review.

Soccer is a complex team sport and success in this discipline depends on different factors such as physical fitness, player technique and team tactics, among others. In the last few years, several studies have described the impact of caffeine intake on soccer physical performance, but the results of these investigations have not been properly reviewed and summarized. The main objective of this review was to evaluate critically the effectiveness of a moderate dose of caffeine on soccer physical performance. A structured search was carried out following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines in the Medline/PubMed and Web of Science databases from January 2007 to November 2018. The search included studies with a cross-over and randomized experimental design in which the intake of caffeine (either from caffeinated drinks or pills) was compared to an identical placebo situation. There were no filters applied to the soccer players' level, gender or age. This review included 17 articles that investigated the effects of caffeine on soccer-specific abilities (n = 12) or on muscle damage (n = 5). The review concluded that 5 investigations (100% of the number of investigations on this topic) had found ergogenic effects of caffeine on jump performance, 4 (100%) on repeated sprint ability and 2 (100%) on running distance during a simulated soccer game. However, only 1 investigation (25%) found as an effect of caffeine to increase serum markers of muscle damage, while no investigation reported an effect of caffeine to reduce perceived fatigue after soccer practice. In conclusion, a single and moderate dose of caffeine, ingested 5⁻60 min before a soccer practice, might produce valuable improvements in certain abilities related to enhanced soccer physical performance. However, caffeine does not seem to cause increased markers of muscle damage or changes in perceived exertion during soccer practice.

Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Haematological Values and Muscle Recovery in Elite Male Traditional Rowers.

INTRODUCTION: Deficient levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) (<30 ng/mL) may compromise health and athletic performance. Supplementation with oral vitamin D can favor the state of iron metabolism, and testosterone and cortisol as an indicator of muscle recovery of the athlete with a deficiency. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of eight weeks of supplementation with 3000 IU/day of vitamin D on the hematological and iron metabolism profile, as well as on the analytical values of testosterone and cortisol on elite male traditional rowers. The secondary aim was to examine if serum 25(OH)D is a predictor of testosterone and cortisol levels. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty-six elite male rowers (27 ± 6 years) were assigned to one of the two groups randomly: 1) Control group (CG, n = 18, height: 181.05 ± 3.39 cm and body mass: 77.02 ± 7.55 kg), 2) Group treated with 3,000 IU of vitamin D3/day (VD3G, s = 18, height: 179.70 ± 9.07 cm and body mass: 76.19 ± 10.07 kg). The rowers were subjected to blood tests at the beginning of the study (T1) and after eight weeks of treatment (T2), for the analysis of hematological and hormonal values. Repeated-measures ANOVA with group factor (GC and GVD3) were used to examine if the interaction of the different values was the same or different between the groups throughout the study (time × group) after vitamin D3 treatment. To analyze if 25(OH)D was a good predictor of testosterone, cortisol, and testosterone/cortisol ratio a stepwise regression model was performed. RESULTS: Statistically significant and different increases were observed in the group-by-time interaction of 25(OH)D in VD3G in respect to CG during the study (p < 0.001; VD3G (T1: 26.24 ± 8.18 ng/mL vs. T2: 48.12 ± 10.88 ng/mL) vs CG (T1: 30.76 ± 6.95 ng/mL vs. T2: 35.14 ± 7.96 ng/mL). Likewise, significant differences between groups were observed throughout the study in the group-by-time interaction and changes of hemoglobin (GC: -2.89 ± 2.29% vs. VD3G: 0.71 ± 1.91%; p = 0.009), hematocrit (CG: -1.57 ± 2.49% vs. VD3G: 1.16 ± 1.81%; p = 0.019) and transferrin (CG: 0.67 ± 4.88% vs. VD3G: 6.51 ± 4.36%; p = 0.007). However, no differences between groups were observed in the group-by-time interaction of the hormonal parameters (p > 0.05). Regression multivariate analysis showed that cortisol and testosterone levels were associated with 25(OH)D levels (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Oral supplementation with 3000 IU/day of vitamin D3 during eight weeks showed to be sufficient to prevent a decline in hematological levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit, and improve transferrin of 25(OH)D levels. However, although it was not sufficient to enhance muscle recovery observed by testosterone and cortisol responses, it was observed that serum 25(OH)D levels could be a predictor of anabolic and catabolic hormones.

Relationship of long-term macronutrients intake on anabolic-catabolic hormones in female elite volleyball players.

INTRODUCTION: Specific macronutrient distribution and training can alter acute and chronic hormone behavior and, subsequently, sport performance. OBJECTIVE: The main aim was to examine relationships between dietary intake and anabolic/catabolic hormone response in elite female volleyball players during a 29-week season. METHODS: Twenty-two elite female volleyballers (26.4 ± 5.6 years; 178 ± 9 cm; 67.1 ± 7.5 kg) had dietary intake (seven-day dietary recall and food frequency questionnaire), blood concentration of anabolic/catabolic hormones concentration, physical performance, and body composition assessed at four time points: a) T1: baseline/pre-testing; b) T2: eleven weeks after T1; c) T3: ten weeks after T2; and d) T4: eight weeks after T3. Hormones evaluated were: total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT) adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and cortisol (C), along with hormone ratios. RESULTS: Positive correlations were observed between carbohydrate/protein ratio with ΔFT (r = 0.955; p < 0.001), ΔTT/C ratio (r = 0.638; p = 0.047), and ΔFT/C ratio (r = 0.909; p < 0.001). Significant and negative correlations were found between protein intake with ΔTT (r = -0.670; p = 0.034), and FT (r = -0.743; p < 0.001), carbohydrate intake and ΔACTH (r = -0.658; p = 0.006). No relationships were observed regarding Δcortisol. On the other hand, there was no change (p > 0.05) in body mass or body mass index at any time point, and the sum of six skinfolds improved (p < 0.05) from T1 (86.5 ± 6.9 mm) to T4 (75.2 ± 5.6 mm) as did muscle mass (T1: 28.9 ± 0.7 kg vsT4: 30.1 ± 0.8 kg). Vertical jump, spike-jump and speed improved (p < 0.05) from T1 to T4. CONCLUSIONS: A high carbohydrate/protein ratio was associated with positive changes in anabolism, while high protein and low carbohydrates (CHO) were associated with an attenuated anabolic response.

BODY COMPOSITION AND SOMATOTYPE OF PROFESSIONAL AND U23 HAND BASQUE PELOTA PLAYERS.

INTRODUCTION: there is hardly any reference in scientific literature regarding anthropometric characteristics, body composition and somatotype of hand Basque pelota players (pelotaris). OBJECTIVES: the aim of this research was to analyze and compare the anthropometry features and body composition of professional pelotaris and under-23 (U23) pelotaris, to create an anthropometric profile of this sport. METHODS: the participants were ten U23 pelotaris, and eight professional pelotaris. Anthropometric measurements were taken following the International Society of Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) protocol. Fat mass (FM) was calculated using the Yushasz equation modified by Carter and muscle mass (MM) using Lee equation. For the somatotype components, the Carter y Heath equation was applied. The hydration level (kg of body water) of the players was measured with a four-pole kind bioelectrical impedance (BIA) analyzer. Spss was used for the statistical analysis. RESULTS: professional pelotaris have significantly lower FM (p < 0.05) and lower sum of 4, 6 and 8 skinfolds (p = 0.001), higher MM (p = 0.015), and a less endomorphic somatotype (p < 0.001) than U23 pelotaris. Professionals have a greater amount of body water (p = 0.001) and a larger bistyloid diameter (p = 0.014). Professional pelotaris have a morphotype characterized by a low FM 8.9 ± 1.1% and medium MM 47 ± 1.7%, height of 183.0 ± 7.1 cm and BM of 85.9 ± 7.6 kg. CONCLUSION: The main results of the present study show that non-modifiable anthropometric features by training (e.g. height, arm span and wrist breadth) are important to become a professional pelotaris. Moreover, training and diet related features have been showed to be better in professional pelotaris (low FM, higher MM and high body water amount) than U23 pelotaris.

Introducción: casi no hay ninguna referencia sobre las características antropométricas, la composición corporal y el somatotipo de la mano de los jugadores de pelota vasca (pelotaris) en la literatura científica. Objetivos: el objetivo de esta investigación fue comparar la composición corporal de pelotaris profesionales y sub-23 para crear el perfil antropométrico de este deporte. Métodos: participaron diez pelotaris sub-23 y ocho pelotaris profesionales. Las medidas antropométricas fueron recogidas siguiendo el protocolo de la Sociedad Internacional de Promoción de Protocolo Cineantropometría (ISAK). La masa grasa (FM) se calculó utilizando la ecuación Yushasz modificada por Carter, y la masa muscular (MM) mediante la ecuación de Lee. Los componentes del somatotipo fueron estimados mediante la ecuación Carter y Heath. El nivel de hidratación de los pelotaris se midió con un analizador tetrapolar de impedancia bioeléctrica (BIA). Resultados: los pelotaris profesionales tienen significativamente menor FM (en % (p = 0,001); en kg (p = 0,025) y en los sumatorios de 4, 6 y 8 pliegues cutáneos (p = 0,001); mayor MM (p = 0,015) y un menor componente endomórfico (p < 0,001) que los pelotaris sub-23. Asimismo, los profesionales tienen una mayor cantidad de agua corporal (p = 0,001) y un diámetro mayor biestiloideo de muñeca (p = 0,014). Los pelotaris profesionales son un morfotipo caracterizado por una baja FM (8,9 ± 1,1%) y una intermedia MM (47 ± 1,7%), además de tener una altura de 183,0 ± 7,1 cm y un peso de 85,9 ± 7,6 kg. Conclusión: los principales resultados de este estudio mostraron que las características antropométricas no modificables por el entrenamiento (por ejemplo, altura, envergadura y diámetro de la muñeca) son componentes importantes para convertirse en un pelotari profesional. Por otra parte, las características relacionadas con el entrenamiento y la dieta han mostrado ser mejores en los pelotaris profesionales (menor FM y mayor MM).

Dietary intake habits and controlled training on body composition and strength in elite female volleyball players during the season.

UNLABELLED: The purpose of this study was to assess dietary intake of elite female volleyball players (EFVPs, n = 22) during the first 11 weeks of the competitive season. Further, we compared findings for total energy intake and specific macronutrient distribution with the established recommendations for high-intensity athletes. Subjects also engaged in periodized training and we assessed changes in body composition (BC) and strength. Twenty-two EFVPs had dietary intake (7-day dietary recall and food-frequency questionnaire), BC (body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, fat mass, muscle mass), and 1-repetition maximum (1RM) strength (bench press, military press, back squat, power clean, clean and jerk, pull-over) assessed at baseline (T0, before preseason) and 11 weeks later (T11). Athletes consumed less total kilocalories and carbohydrates (CHO) compared with established recommendations (total kilocalories: 40.7 ± 5.2 kcal/(kg · day)(-1) vs. RECOMMENDATIONS: 50-80 kcal/(kg · day)(-1); CHO: 4.3 ± 0.6 g/(kg · day)(-1) vs. RECOMMENDATIONS: 5-8 g/(kg · day)(-1)). Further, subjects consumed greater protein (2.1 ± 0.4 g/(kg · day)(-1)) compared with recommendations (1.6-1.8 g/(kg · day)(-1)) and greater fat (36.1 ± 4.6% of total kilocalories) than recommendations (20%-35% of total kilocalories). There were improvements (p < 0.05) in BC from T0-T11 (body fat percentage: 17.9% ± 4.2%-16.8% ± 3.6%, -4.7% ± 7.4%; fat mass: 12.7 ± 4.2-11.9 ± 3.8 kg, -4.0% ± 9.2%; muscle mass: 42.8% ± 3.4%-43.3% ± 3.0%, +1.3 ± 3.1%) and 1RM strength (bench press: 39.1 ± 4.5-43.4 ± 4.9 kg; +11.4% ± 9.3%; clean and jerk: 29.7 ± 6.3-34 ± 5.8 kg; +17.7% ± 23.8%); however, there was no change (p > 0.05) in BMI or military press and pull-over. Back squat (p = 0.054; +33.0% ± 83.7%) and power clean (p = 0.056; +26.2% ± 49.0%) increases approached significance. Our findings indicate that EFVPs improved BC and strength despite a dietary intake different from recommendations. This is possibly due to different substrate utilization during exercise in females versus males, thus new recommendations should be considered for high-intensity athletes, which are sex-specific.

Iron supplementation prevents a decline in iron stores and enhances strength performance in elite female volleyball players during the competitive season.

The primary aim of this study was to examine the effects of 11 weeks of iron supplementation on hematological and strength markers in elite female volleyball players. Twenty-two volleyball players (aged 27.0 ± 5.6 years) from 2 Spanish First National League teams participated and were counterbalanced into 1 of 2 groups based upon iron status: (i) control group (CG, n = 11); or (ii) iron treatment group (ITG, n = 11), which received 325 mg/day of ferrous sulphate daily. Subjects performed their team's regimen of training or match play every day. Both groups were tested for hematological and strength levels at 2 points: (i) baseline (T0, before preseason) and (ii) 11 weeks later (T11, post-testing). Hematological parameters were serum iron (sFe), serum ferritin (FER), transferrin saturation index (TSI), and hemoglobin (Hb); strength assessments were bench press, military press, half-squat, power clean, clean and jerk, and pull-over. CG experienced a significant decrease (p < 0.05) for sFe (T0, 112.7 ± 31.5; T11, 69.0 ± 20.5 µg·dL(-1); -33.9%), FER (T0, 60.2 ± 28.6; T11, 38.2 ± 16.4 ng·mL(-1); -34.6%), TSI (T0, 29.4% ± 9.5%; T11, 17.4% ± 5.1%; -35.3%), and Hb (T0, 14.1 ± 1.0; T11, 13.0 ± 0.8 g·L(-1); -7.44%); however, ITG experienced no changes (p > 0.05). Consequently, in ITG all hematological parameters were significantly greater (p < 0.05) than CG at T11. There was greater (p < 0.05) percent increase in the clean and jerk (CG: +5.1% ± 20.9 vs. ITG: +29.0% ± 21.3%), power clean (CG: -5.8% ± 30.3% vs. ITG: +44.6% ± 56.6%), and total mean strength (CG: +10.9% ± 3.2% vs. ITG: +26.2% ± 3.6%) in ITG. Our findings suggest that oral iron supplementation prevents iron loss and enhances strength in female volleyball players during the competitive season.

Hydration and chemical ingredients in sport drinks: food safety in the European context.

Before, during and after physical activity, hydration is a limiting factor in athletic performance. Therefore, adequate hydration provides benefits for health and performance of athletes. Besides, hydration is associated to the intake of carbohydrates, protein, sodium, caffeine and other substances by different dietary aids, during the training and/or competition by athletes. These requirements have led to the development of different products by the food industry, to cover the nutritional needs of athletes. Currently in the European context, the legal framework for the development of products, substances and health claims concerning to sport products is incomplete and scarce. Under these conditions, there are many products with different ingredients out of European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) control where claims are wrong due to no robust scientific evidence and it can be dangerous for the health. Further scientific evidence should be constructed by new clinical trials in order to assist to the Experts Commitees at EFSA for obtaining robust scientific opinions concerning to the functional foods and the individual ingredients for sport population.

Antes, durante y después de la actividad física, la hidratación es un factor limitante en el rendimiento deportivo. Por lo tanto, una adecuada hidratación proporciona beneficios para la salud y el rendimiento de los deportista. Además, la hidratación se asocia a la ingesta de hidratos de carbono, proteínas, sodio, cafeína y otras sustancias durante el entrenamiento y/o competición de los deportistas. Estos requisitos han llevado al desarrollo de diferentes productos por parte de la industria alimentaria, para cubrir las necesidades nutricionales de los deportistas. Actualmente en el contexto europeo, el marco legal para el desarrollo de productos, sustancias y declaraciones nutricionales y de propiedades saludables relativas a productos deportivos, es incompleta y escasa. Hay muchos productos con diferentes ingredientes controlados por la Agencia Europea de Seguridad Alimentaria (EFSA), los cuales poseen declaraciones nutricionales y de propiedades saludables erróneas, debido a la falta o escasa evidencia científica, resultado peligroso para la salud. Se necesita mayor evidencia científica obtendia a través de nuevos ensayos clínicos con el fin de ayudar a los Comités de expertos de la EFSA para la obtención de dictámenes científicos sólidos relativos a los alimentos funcionales y los ingredientes individuales para la población deportiva.

From dehydration to hyperhidration isotonic and diuretic drinks and hyperhydratant aids in sport.

The needs of water and electrolytes are quite variants, depending on age, physiological or environmental conditions. In most long-term sports, usual weight loss of 3-6%, affect in athletic performance. The effects of a 6% dehydration could be improved with individualized diet-specific nutritional strategies and allow only a 2-3% dehydration, which affect metabolic efficiency but will not risk the health. On the contrary, hyperhydration can be dangerous and is associated with hyponatremia that can cause cerebral edema or respiratory failure. Sports drinks should moisturize, providing minerals and carbohydrates and increase the absorption of water by an ideal combination of salts and sugars. Therefore, it is important to provide correct hydration -protocols before, during and after physical activity, as well as know possible limitations of the sport.

[Effects of branched amino acids in endurance sports: a review]. / Efectos de los aminoácidos ramificados en deportes de larga duración: revisión bibliográfica.

INTRODUCTION: The report issued by the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) in 2010 on nutrition and health claims, shows that there is no scientific evidence to support supplementation with branched chain amino acids (BCAAs). The aim of this study is to analyze the effects of consumption of BCAAs in endurance sports. METHODS: A literature review on the current state of the effect of consumption of dietary supplements of BCAAs. We conducted a search in the PubMed database and snowball strategy. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Spanish / English randomized clinical trial related to the consumption of BCAAs, leucine, valine and isoleucine in endurance sports and its effects on muscle damage, athletic performance, central fatigue, anabolic signals during recovery and immune system response published in any country until May 2014. RESULTS: Out of 330 studies identified, 14 met the inclusion criteria. The mean of subjects participating in the study was (11.36±7.43). Only two studies included a group of women. The sports that we found in the studies were: run, cycling, combining cycling and running, Olympic distance triathlon and one study included 2 groups of athletes (Olympic distance triathletes and runners). The effects of BCAAs and muscle damage, athletic performance, central fatigue, anabolic signals during recovery period and immune response were studied at different times: before, during and after training or a combination of these. DISCUSSION: It is observed that there is a lesser degree of pain and muscle damage, less perceived exertion and mental fatigue, greater anabolic response in recovery period and improved immune response when supplemented with BCAAs, notwithstanding its decision before or during physical activity does not improve athletic performance. No consensus was found in the dose and timing of the most effective decision, although it is more effective if there is 2-3/1/1g relationship between leucine / isoleucine and valine amino acids.

Introducción: El informe emitido por la Agencia Europea de Seguridad Alimentaria (EFSA) en 2010 sobre las declaraciones nutricionales y propiedades saludables, muestra que no existen evidencias científicas que apoyen la suplementación con aminoácidos ramificados (BCAAs). El objetivo de este estudio es analizar los efectos del consumo de suplementos de BCAAs en deportes de larga duración (DLD). Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de revisión bibliográfica sobre el estado actual del efecto del consumo de suplementos de BCAAs. Se realizó una búsqueda en la base de datos PubMed y estrategia de bola de nieve. Criterios de inclusión: Estudios realizados en humanos, ensayos clínicos controlados aleatorizados (ECCA) en castellano/inglés relacionados con el consumo de BCAAs, leucina, valina e isoleucina en DLD y sus efectos sobre el daño muscular, rendimiento deportivo, fatiga central, respuesta anabólica y sistema inmunológico publicados en cualquier país hasta mayo 2014. Resultados: De los 330 estudios identificados, 14 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. La media de sujetos participantes en los estudio es igual a (11,36 ± 7,43). Sólo dos estudios incluyen un grupo de mujeres. Las disciplinas deportivas que se encontraron en los estudios fueron carrera a pie, ciclismo, combinación ciclismo y carrera a pie, triatlón distancia olímpica y un estudio que incluía 2 grupos de deportistas (triatlón distancia olímpica y carrera a pie). Se estudian los efectos de los BCAAs y daño muscular, rendimiento deportivo, fatiga central, respuesta anabólica en periodo de recuperación y respuesta inmunológica en periodos diferentes del entrenamiento: antes, durante y después o una combinación de éstos. Discusión: Se observa que existe un menor grado de dolor y daño muscular, menor percepción del esfuerzo y fatiga mental, mayor respuesta anabólica en periodo de recuperación y mejora de la respuesta inmunológica cuando se suplementa con BCAAs, no obstante su toma antes o durante la actividad física no mejora el rendimiento deportivo. No se ha encontrado consenso en la dosis y cronología de la toma más eficaz, aunque es más efectivo si hay una relación 2-3/1/1g, entre los aminoácidos Leucina/ Isoleucina y Valina.

Changes induced by diet and nutritional intake in the lipid profile of female professional volleyball players after 11 weeks of training.

BACKGROUND: The relationship between cardiovascular disease and lipid profile is well known. Apart from a heart-healthy diet, exercise is the primary factor that can modify this lipid-associated cardiovascular risk. The aim of the study was to evaluate potential changes in the levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDLc), and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDLc), as well as atherogenic indices (TC/HDLc and LDLc/HDLc), and also to analyse the diet over 11 weeks of training in female professional volleyball players. METHODS: The lipid profile of 22 female professional volleyball players was analysed on Day T0 (pre-preseason) and Day T11 (after 11 weeks of training). The consumption of fats by the players was estimated using a food frequency questionnaire, confirmed by seven days of full dietary records. RESULTS: By the end of the study, the LDLc levels and both atherogenic indices of the players had decreased (p < 0.05) compared to the values obtained at baseline. In addition, the diet of the players contained 35.5 ± 3.2% of fats (saturated fatty acid: 11.1 ± 1.2%, monounsaturated fatty acid: 14.3 ± 1.9%, and polyunsaturated fatty acid: 7.0 ± 1.1%) and 465 ± 57 mg of dietary cholesterol. Their score for the (monounsaturated + polyunsaturated fatty acid)/saturated fatty acid ratio was 1.9 ± 0.4, less than the recommended ≥ 2. CONCLUSION: These data indicate that the activity of the female professional volleyball players during the first 11 weeks of training in the season was heart healthy, because their lipid profile improved, despite an inadequate intake of fats.

Usefulness of combining intermittent hypoxia and physical exercise in the treatment of obesity.

Obesity is an important public health problem worldwide and is a major risk factor for a number of chronic diseases such as type II diabetes, adverse cardiovascular events and metabolic syndrome-related features. Different treatments have been applied to tackle body fat accumulation and its associated clinical manifestations. Often, relevant weight loss is achieved during the first 6 months under different dietary treatments. From this point, a plateau is reached, and a gradual recovery of the lost weight may occur. Therefore, new research approaches are being investigated to assure weight maintenance. Pioneering investigations have reported that oxygen variations in organic systems may produce changes in body composition. Possible applications of intermittent hypoxia to promote health and in various pathophysiological states have been reported. The hypoxic stimulus in addition to diet and exercise can be an interesting approach to lose weight, by inducing higher basal noradrenalin levels and other metabolic changes whose mechanisms are still unclear. Indeed, hypoxic situations increase the diameter of arterioles, produce peripheral vasodilatation and decrease arterial blood pressure. Furthermore, hypoxic training increases the activity of glycolytic enzymes, enhancing the number of mitochondria and glucose transporter GLUT-4 levels as well as improving insulin sensitivity. Moreover, hypoxia increases blood serotonin and decreases leptin levels while appetite is suppressed. These observations allow consideration of the hypothesis that intermittent hypoxia induces fat loss and may ameliorate cardiovascular health, which might be of interest for the treatment of obesity. This new strategy may be useful and practical for clinical applications in obese patients.