An academic cooperation between the Japan Sports Nutrition Association (JSNA) and the Korean Society for Exercise Nutrition (KSEN).

PURPOSE: The Japan Sports Nutrition Association (JSNA) is an academic society that aims to contribute to people's health and the development of sports in Japan. METHODS: After numerous communication and academic events, the JSNA and the Korean Society for Exercise Nutrition (KSEN) exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2018. RESULTS: Based on the MoU, the JSNA and KSEN organized academic exchange events until the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic and subsequent travel restrictions and lockdowns. CONCLUSION: After four years of the pandemic and the downgrading of Coronavirus Disease 2019 infection risk, it is hoped that academic exchanges between the societies will resume gradually and enhance members' recognition of the cooperation between the JSNA and KSEN for active collaborations in the future.

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on Post-Exercise Inflammation, Muscle Damage, Oxidative Response, and Sports Performance in Physically Healthy Adults-A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Omega-3 is a family of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which have been used to treat a wide variety of chronic diseases, due mainly to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, among others. In this context, omega-3 could be post-exercise recovery agent and sports supplement that could improve performance by preserving and promoting skeletal muscle mass and strength. No conclusive evidence, however, exists about the potential effects of omega-3 on post-exercise biomarkers and sports performance in physically healthy adults. Based on the PRISMA in Exercise, Rehabilitation, Sports Medicine, and Sports Science (PERSiST) guidelines, we systematically reviewed studies indexed in Web of Science, Scopus, and Medline to assess the effects of omega-3 on post-exercise inflammation, muscle damage, oxidant response, and sports performance in physically healthy adults. The search was performed on original articles published in the last 10 years up to 5 May 2024, with a controlled trial design in which omega-3 supplementation was compared with a control group. Among 14,971 records identified in the search, 13 studies met the selection criteria. The duration of the interventions ranged from 1 day to 26 weeks of supplementation and the doses used were heterogeneous. Creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the control group in 3 of the 4 studies where these markers were analyzed. C-reactive protein (CRP) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the control group of 2 of the 13 studies where this marker was analyzed. The delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) gave mixed results. Interleukin 6 (IL-6) showed improvements with supplementation, but tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) displayed no differences. The consumption of n-3 PUFAs improved some indicators of oxidative stress such as reduced glutathione (GSH)/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio. Additional evidence is needed to establish clear recommendations regarding the dose and length of n-3 PUFA supplements. These may benefit the post-exercise inflammatory response, mitigate muscle damage, and decrease oxidative stress caused by exercise. However, studies did not evaluate omega-3 status at baseline or following supplementation and therefore the observations must be treated with caution.

Sex and gender in sports nutrition research: bridging the gap.

The Olympic Games have grown to be the largest, gender-equal sporting event in the world, and the International Olympic Committee is committed to gender equality in sports encouraging and supporting the promotion of women in sports at all levels and in all structures with a view to implementing the principle of equality of men and women (IOC, 2023). Women competed for the first time at the 1900 Olympic Games in Paris, and the number of women competing has grown exponentially over the last 100 years, so an estimated 5494 female athletes (48 %) competed in the Summer Olympic Games 2021 in Tokyo. Supporting women (alongside men) in achieving optimum performance is crucial, and understanding that there are sex and gender gaps in sports nutrition research is important. One reason for this gap is the historical bias in sports and exercise science research towards male participants. This has led to a poor understanding of the unique physiological and nutritional needs of female athletes. In summary, a balanced approach is crucial to address the nutritional needs of both male and female athletes. Researchers should continue exploring this important area to optimise performance and health for all athletes. The aim of this review is to summarise current sports nutrition literature and highlight research that seeks to understand and address where the gaps are with respect to several key areas in sports nutrition recommendations that can impact advice and practice with both males and females.

[Anthocyanins as an element of nutritional support for athletes: effects and molecular mechanisms of action].

Antioxidants are among the common components of sports nutrition designed to counteract oxidative stress that develops during intense physical activity. One of the promising antioxidants are anthocyanins which belong to polyphenolic compounds of plant origin (class of flavonoids). The purpose of the research was to analyze the results of prospective controlled studies on the effect of anthocyanins on physical performance, and to consider the possible molecular mechanisms of their action. Material and methods. Sources were searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and CyberLeninka databases of peer-reviewed scientific literature without restrictions on the year of publication using the following keywords: anthocyanins, physical performance, recovery, sport and exercise nutrition, oxidative stress, inflammation. Results. The main data set on the effects of anthocyanins in athletes was obtained using extracts of blackcurrant and Montmorency tart cherry. Volunteers received anthocyanins at a dose of 86-547 mg per day for 1 to 10 days with subsequent evaluation of their performance in cycling, running and fitness activities. The possibility of favorable effect of anthocyanins on physical performance and acceleration of its recovery after exertion has been shown. The source, dose and duration of intake did not significantly influence the established effects of anthocyanins. Acting as exogenous regulators of metabolism, anthocyanins can activate several mechanisms of performance enhancement, including influence on antioxidant and immune status and apoptosis intensity. Anthocyanins prevent the formation of reactive oxygen species, neutralize electrophilic compounds by direct interaction or through activation of Nrf2 factor, which regulates the transcription of antioxidant enzyme genes. The basis of the anti-inflammatory action of anthocyanins is their ability to inhibit MARK and NF-κB mediated signal transduction. Inclusion of bilberry and blackcurrant extract in the diet prevented the intensification of myocyte apoptosis and suppression of cellular immunity induced by exhausting exercise. An additional mechanism of anthocyanin action on physical performance may be an increase in blood supply of organs and tissues due to vascular dilation caused by activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Conclusion. The intake of plant extracts with a high anthocyanin content can increase physical performance and improve recovery after physical exertion, which may be due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of anthocyanins, their ability to regulate apoptosis processes and improve blood supply to organs and tissues.

Green strength: The role of micronutrients in plant-based diets for athletic performance enhancement.

This review examines the correlation between plant-based diets and athletic performance, with a specific emphasis on the vital aspect of optimizing micronutrients for athletes. In light of the increasing prevalence of plant-based nutrition among athletes due to its perceived advantages in terms of health, ethics, and the environment, this study investigates the ability of these diets to satisfy the demanding nutritional requirements essential for achieving optimal performance and facilitating recovery. The article emphasizes the significance of essential micronutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids and also addressing the challenges with their absorption and bioavailability from plant sources. The review consolidates existing scientific knowledge to propose strategies for improving micronutrient consumption, comparing the effects of supplements against whole foods, and highlighting the significance of enhancing bioavailability. The proposal supports the implementation of personalized meal planning, with the assistance of sports nutritionists or dietitians, and is substantiated by case studies showcasing the success of plant-based athletes. Future research directions examine the long-term effects of plant-based diets on micronutrient status and athletic performance, as well as developing nutritional trends and technology. The review concludes that plant-based diets can meet athletes' nutritional demands and improve peak performance while aligning with personal and ethical values with strategic planning and professional guidance. This study intends to help athletes, coaches, and nutritionists understand plant-based nutrition for enhanced athletic performance.

Effects of a Ketogenic Diet on Body Composition in Healthy, Young, Normal-Weight Women: A Randomized Controlled Feeding Trial.

This study investigates the effects of a ketogenic low-carbohydrate high-fat (LCHF) diet on body composition in healthy, young, normal-weight women. With the increasing interest in ketogenic diets for their various health benefits, this research aims to understand their impact on body composition, focusing on women who are often underrepresented in such studies. Conducting a randomized controlled feeding trial with a crossover design, this study compares a ketogenic LCHF diet to a Swedish National Food Agency (NFA)-recommended control diet over four weeks. Seventeen healthy, young, normal-weight women adhered strictly to the provided diets, with ketosis confirmed through blood ß-hydroxybutyrate concentrations. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was utilized for precise body composition measurements. To avoid bias, all statistical analyses were performed blind. The findings reveal that the ketogenic LCHF diet led to a significant reduction in both lean mass (-1.45 kg 95% CI: [-1.90;-1.00]; p < 0.001) and fat mass (-0.66 kg 95% CI: [-1.00;-0.32]; p < 0.001) compared to the control diet, despite similar energy intake and physical activity levels. This study concludes that while the ketogenic LCHF diet is effective for weight loss, it disproportionately reduces lean mass over fat mass, suggesting the need for concurrent strength training to mitigate muscle loss in women following this diet.

Moderate-dose caffeine enhances anaerobic performance without altering hydration status.

The effects of direct nutritional supplements on athletic performance are still being investigated and arouse curiosity. Only one study in the literature was found that investigated the kicking speed performance of futsal players following low-dose caffeine supplementation (3 mg/kg); thus, the question of whether caffeine supplementation improves kicking speed as well as essential physical parameters in soccer players is still controversial. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of caffeine supplementation on vertical jump (VJ), sprint, reaction time, balance, change of direction (COD), and ball-kicking speed in soccer players. In a double-blind, cross-over design, nine moderately trained male soccer players (21.11 ± 2.02 years, 171.22 ± 6.14 cm, 71.78 ± 10.02 kg) consumed caffeine (6 mg/kg) or a placebo 60 min before completing balance, reaction time, vertical jump, agility, 30 m sprint, and ball-kicking speed tests. Greater VJ height (p = 0.01) and power (p = 0.08), and faster completion time according to the Illinois Agility Test (p = 0.08) were found following caffeine supplementation compared to placebo. Elapsed time (p = 0.01), average (p = 0.01) time, and the slowest reaction times (p = 0.016) were significantly reduced after caffeine consumption compared to placebo supplementation. Caffeine intake significantly improved VJ, agility, and reaction time (p < 0.05) but did not affect 30 m sprint, ball-kicking speed, balance, and RPE values in soccer players (p > 0.05). Although non-significant, caffeine intake also improved sprint (0.67%) and ball kicking (2.7%) performance percentages. Also, caffeine consumption did not induce dehydration, and the athletes' body hydration levels were normal. These findings support the use of caffeine supplementation as an effective nutritional ergogenic aid to enhance anaerobic performance, at least for vertical jumps, COD speed, and reaction time, in trained male soccer players.

Protein and Leucine Requirements for Maximal Muscular Development and Athletic Performance Are Achieved with Completely Plant-Based Diets Modeled to Meet Energy Needs in Adult Male Rugby Players.

Rugby athletes consume large amounts of animal protein in accordance with conventional dietary guidance to increase muscle mass and strength. This misaligns with national dietary guidelines, which suggest limiting meat consumption for chronic disease prevention. The ability of completely plant-based diets to satisfy the nutritional needs of rugby players has not been explored. This study scaled nutrient data from a large population consuming completely plant-based diets with limited supplemental protein to meet the calorie requirements of adult male rugby athletes to assess whether protein and leucine recommendations for muscular development and athletic performance would be achieved. Calorie requirements were estimated from research that employed the doubly labeled water method, and dietary data from the Adventist Health Study-2 were scaled to this level. The modeled protein level was 1.68 g/kg/day, which meets recommendations for maximal gains in muscle mass, strength, and athletic performance. The modeled leucine level was 2.9 g/meal for four daily meals, which exceeds the threshold proposed to maximally stimulate muscle protein synthesis in young men. These results indicate that consuming large portions of completely plant-based meals can satisfy protein and leucine requirements for maximal muscular development and athletic performance in adult male rugby athletes while aligning with public health recommendations.

Examining the impact of differing caffeine dosages in conjunction with plyometric training on physiological adaptations in basketball players.

The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of ingesting different dosages of caffeine (CAF) prior to plyometric jump training (PJT) on sport-related performance and physiological parameters in male basketball players. Twenty-four young athletes were randomly divided into 3 groups and performed 6 weeks of PJT while consuming 3 mg·kg-1 of body mass caffeine (CAF3, n = 8), 6 mg·kg-1 body mass caffeine (CAF6, n = 8) or placebo (PL; n = 8) one hour prior to each training session. Before and after the 6-week PJT, the players were evaluated for field-based basketball-specific performance measures (vertical jump, 20-m sprint, Illinois change of direction speed [CODS], and maximal strength) and lab-based physiological (aerobic capacity and anaerobic power) parameters. CAF3, CAF6, and PL groups demonstrated significant improvements in vertical jump (ES = 1.07, 1.45, and 1.1, respectively), 20-m sprint (ES = - 0.50, - 0.61, and - 0.36), change of direction performance (ES = - 1.22, - 1.26, and - 1.09), maximal strength (ES = 1.68, 2.29, and 1.17), maximum oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) (ES = 1.09, 1.59, and 0.92), and peak (ES = 1.82, 1.85, and 0.82) and average power output (ES = 1.39, 1.32, and 1.07) after 6 weeks of training. Comparative analysis of individual adaptive responses to training indicated that the CAF6 led to insignificantly greater effects in vertical jump (ES = 1.45), maximal strength (ES = 2.29), and V̇O2max (ES = 1.59) with lower residuals in individual changes and lower coefficient of variations (CV) in mean group changes. Regarding sprint and CODS performance, both experimental groups indicated similar changes, residuals in individual changes, and CVs in mean group changes. Overall, consuming 6 mg·kg-1 body mass caffeine induces superior adaptations in aerobic fitness, anaerobic power, and sport-specific performance measures, with lower inter-individual variability in the adaptations and more homogenized changes over the training period.

Astaxanthin Supplementation as a Potential Strategy for Enhancing Mitochondrial Adaptations in the Endurance Athlete: An Invited Review.

Astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant found in marine organisms such as microalgae and krill, may offer ergogenic benefits to endurance athletes. Originally used in fish feed, astaxanthin has shown a greater ability to mitigate various reactive oxygen species and maintain the structural integrity of mitochondria compared to other exogenous antioxidants. More recent work has shown that astaxanthin may improve: (1) cycling time trial performance, (2) cardiorespiratory measures such as submaximal heart rate during running or cycling, (3) recovery from delayed-onset muscle soreness, and (4) endogenous antioxidant capacity such as whole blood glutathione within trained populations. In this review, the history of astaxanthin and its chemical structure are first outlined before briefly describing the various adaptations (e.g., mitochondrial biogenesis, enhanced endogenous antioxidant capacity, etc.) which take place specifically at the mitochondrial level as a result of chronic endurance training. The review then concludes with the potential additive effects that astaxanthin may offer in conjunction with endurance training for the endurance athlete and offers some suggested practical recommendations for athletes and coaches interested in supplementing with astaxanthin.

Evaluating the Impact of Probiotic Therapy on the Endocannabinoid System, Pain, Sleep and Fatigue: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial in Dancers.

Emerging research links the endocannabinoid system to gut microbiota, influencing nociception, mood, and immunity, yet the molecular interactions remain unclear. This study focused on the effects of probiotics on ECS markers-cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH)-in dancers, a group selected due to their high exposure to physical and psychological stress. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05567653), 15 dancers were assigned to receive either a 12-week regimen of Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell-52 and Bifidobacterium longum Rosell-17 or a placebo (PLA: n = 10, PRO: n = 5). There were no significant changes in CB2 (probiotic: 0.55 to 0.29 ng/mL; placebo: 0.86 to 0.72 ng/mL) or FAAH levels (probiotic: 5.93 to 6.02 ng/mL; placebo: 6.46 to 6.94 ng/mL; p > 0.05). A trend toward improved sleep quality was observed in the probiotic group, while the placebo group showed a decline (PRO: from 1.4 to 1.0; PLA: from 0.8 to 1.2; p = 0.07841). No other differences were noted in assessed outcomes (pain and fatigue). Probiotic supplementation showed no significant impact on CB2 or FAAH levels, pain, or fatigue but suggested potential benefits for sleep quality, suggesting an area for further research.

Differences in perceived energy and macronutrient requirements across divisions in NCAA athletes.

BACKGROUND: Sports nutrition is an impactful component to sports performance. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the sports nutrition knowledge of National Collegiate Athletic Association collegiate athletes and assess self-reported perceived requirements for energy and macronutrient intake. A secondary aim was to evaluate the awareness of physical and emotional perceptions associated with mindful eating. METHODS: Participants included NCAA Division I (DI, n = 45), II (DII, n = 31), and III (DIII, n = 47) athletes. Athletes completed a validated questionnaire designed to assess sports nutrition knowledge and were asked questions about their perceived dietary energy and macronutrient requirements. Daily energy intake values were calculated using a recommended relative energy intake value of 40, 50, and 60 kcal/kg/day for low, moderate, and high activity levels, respectively. Carbohydrate recommendations were calculated using 4, 6, and 8 g/kg/day, protein recommendations were calculated using relative intakes of 1.4, 1.6, and 1.8 g/kg/day, and fat recommendations were calculated from a relative percentage of total predicted daily energy requirements, equating to 15, 25, and 30% of daily energy. Additionally, athletes completed a questionnaire to assess mindfulness regarding eating habits. RESULTS: Overall, athletes answered 45.5 ± 13.5% of questions correctly on the nutrition questionnaire with significant differences observed between male (48.6 ± 13.6%) and female athletes (43.6 ± 13.2%; p = 0.044), as well as significant differences observed between DI athlete scores (38.8 ± 14.1%) and DII athletes (47.7 ± 11.4%; p = 0.002), and DI athletes and DIII athletes (51.71 ± 11.83%; p = <0.001). All athletes significantly (p < 0.001) underestimated daily energy intake requirements (female, 2,112 ± 575 kcal/day; male, 3,283 ± 538 kcal/day). The mindfulness eating habits total score was significantly higher in male athletes (65.1 ± 6.5) compared to female athletes (60.9 ± 9.5; p = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS: Division I, II, and III collegiate athletes have poor sports nutrition knowledge, with Division I athletes having exhibited lower scores compared to Division II and III athletes on the sports nutrition knowledge questionnaire. Athletes from all levels of collegiate sports underestimated their energy and macronutrient requirements. Differences in mindful eating habits among female and male athletes were also evident.

Effect of ADORA2A Gene Polymorphism and Acute Caffeine Supplementation on Hormonal Response to Resistance Exercise: A Double-Blind, Crossover, Placebo-Controlled Study.

Previous studies have reported that TT genotype carriers of the adenosine A2a receptor (ADORA2A) gene rs5751876 polymorphism have better ergogenic and anti-inflammatory responses to caffeine intake compared to C allele carriers. The aim of the present study was twofold: (1) to investigate the association of the ADORA2A rs5751876 polymorphism with acute caffeine supplementation on hormonal (growth hormone and testosterone) response to resistance exercise (RE); (2) to examine the relationship between the rs5751876 polymorphism and the resting levels of growth hormone and testosterone in athletes who are light caffeine consumers. A double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled study involving 30 resistance-trained men (age 21.7 ± 4.1) was conducted to assess the impact of caffeine supplementation on serum growth hormone (GH) and testosterone (TS) levels before, immediately after, and 15 min post-RE. One hour before engaging in resistance exercise, subjects were randomly administered 6 mg of caffeine per kg of body mass or a placebo (maltodextrin). After a 7-day washout period, the same protocol was repeated. Resting testosterone and growth hormone levels were examined in the sera of 94 elite athletes (31 females, age 21.4 ± 2.8; 63 males, age 22.9 ± 3.8). Caffeine consumption led to significantly greater increases in GH and TS in men with the TT genotype compared to C allele carriers. Furthermore, in the group of athletes, carriers of the TT genotype had significantly higher testosterone (p = 0.0125) and growth hormone (p = 0.0365) levels compared to C allele carriers. In conclusion, the ADORA2A gene rs5751876 polymorphism may modify the effect of caffeine intake on the hormonal response to exercise.

Evaluation of Nutrition and Performance Parameters in Division 1 Collegiate Athletes.

BACKGROUND: Testing and evaluating athletes is necessary and should include performance, body composition, and nutrition. The purpose of this study was to report assessments of dietary intake, V˙O2max, and body composition in D1 collegiate athletes and examine relationships between these assessments. METHODS: Dietary intake was assessed with 3-day recalls and compared to recommendations, and body composition was assessed via bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) (n = 48). V˙O2max was evaluated using a graded exercise test (GXT) with a verification bout (n = 35). Reliability between "true" V˙O2max and verification was determined. Correlations and regressions were performed. RESULTS: Energy, carbohydrate, and micronutrient intake was lower than recommendations. Mean V˙O2max was 47.3 and 47.4 mL·kg-1·min-1 for GXT and verification, respectively. While correlations were apparent among dietary intake, V˙O2max, and body composition, percent fat-free mass (%FFM) predicted 36% of V˙O2max. CONCLUSIONS: Collegiate athletes are not meeting energy and carbohydrate recommendations and exceed fat recommendations. Vitamin D and magnesium were low in all sports, and iron and calcium were low in females. V˙O2max ranged from 35.6 to 63.0 mL·kg-1·min-1, with females below average and males meeting typical values for their designated sport. Assessing D1 athletes can provide guidance for sports dietitians, coaches, and strength and conditioning specialists to track and monitor nutrition in athletes.

Protein Requirements for Maximal Muscle Mass and Athletic Performance Are Achieved with Completely Plant-Based Diets Scaled to Meet Energy Needs: A Modeling Study in Professional American Football Players.

American football players consume large quantities of animal-sourced protein in adherence with traditional recommendations to maximize muscle development and athletic performance. This contrasts with dietary guidelines, which recommend reducing meat intake and increasing consumption of plant-based foods to promote health and reduce the risk of chronic disease. The capacity of completely plant-based diets to meet the nutritional needs of American football players has not been studied. This modeling study scaled dietary data from a large cohort following completely plant-based diets to meet the energy requirements of professional American football players to determine whether protein, leucine, and micronutrient needs for physical performance and health were met. The Cunningham equation was used to estimate calorie requirements. Nutrient intakes from the Adventist Health Study 2 were then scaled to this calorie level. Protein values ranged from 1.6-2.2 g/kg/day and leucine values ranged from 3.8-4.1 g/meal at each of four daily meals, therefore meeting and exceeding levels theorized to maximize muscle mass, muscle strength, and muscle protein synthesis, respectively. Plant-based diets scaled to meet the energy needs of professional American football players satisfied protein, leucine, and micronutrient requirements for muscle development and athletic performance. These findings suggest that completely plant-based diets could bridge the gap between dietary recommendations for chronic disease prevention and athletic performance in American football players.

Prevalence of disordered eating and its relationship with rapid weight loss amongst male and female combat sport competitors: A prospective study.

OBJECTIVES: To compare prevalence and change scores of disordered eating (DE) in combat sport athletes by sex and explore the potential relationship between rapid weight loss (RWL) and DE scores. DESIGN: Prospective study based on 24 events (September 2022-2023). METHODS: A body mass (BM) questionnaire was completed at ~1 day post-competition providing pre-competition BM data for -7 days, -24 h, and weigh-in. The Athletic Disordered Eating (ADE) online questionnaire was completed at ~7 and ~28 days post-competition, providing overall DE and four subscale scores (food and energy control, bingeing, body control, and body discontent). RESULTS: There were 122, 132, and 89 respondents for the BM (77 % male), and ADE questionnaires at 7 (79 % male), and 28 days (74 % male). A large proportion of males' (83 %) and females' (89 %) DE scores were moderate to very high; minimal (17 % vs. 11 %), moderate (36 % vs. 32 %), high (37 % vs. 36 %), and very high (11 % vs. 21 %). Comparing DE change scores in males and females indicated deterioration (5 % vs. 0 %), improvement (3 % vs. 25 %, p = 0.013), and no difference (92 % vs. 75 %). Body discontent change score showed a significant sex difference (p = 0.014), with females improving (42 % vs. 17 %, p = 0.035) and males deteriorating (35 % vs. 4 %, p = 0.008). Correlation analyses were significant for RWL -7 days and males' food control score (R = 0.22, p = 0.031). CONCLUSIONS: Moderate to very high DE indications were identified in 4 of every 5 combat sport competitors. A sex-specific change in body discontent is evident, and most competitors struggle with their food-body relationship post-competition, irrespective of RWL magnitude.

Effects of Omega-3 fatty acids supplementation and resistance training on skeletal muscle.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: The aim of this study was to investigate the omega-3 fatty acids supplementation, and resistance training on muscle strength and mass. METHODS: A review was conducted by searching relevant randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation and resistance training on skeletal muscle strength and mass. Three experts independently performed a thorough examination of the literature database and conducted the systematic review and meta-analysis. RESULTS: Four studies were ultimately included in the systematic review after screening. The results of the meta-analysis revealed that the supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids and resistance training significantly improved muscle strength compared to the placebo-controlled group. However, no significant effects were observed in the effect for muscle mass. CONCLUSIONS: The interventions of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation and resistance training show promise as a countermeasure against muscular dysfunction. While further research is warranted to investigate its effects on skeletal muscle mass, the findings of this study hold implications for maintaining and/or improving the quality of life to elderly people.

Paraxanthine provides greater improvement in cognitive function than caffeine after performing a 10-km run.

RATIONALE: Intense exercise promotes fatigue and can impair cognitive function, particularly toward the end of competition when decision-making is often critical for success. For this reason, athletes often ingest caffeinated energy drinks prior to or during exercise to help them maintain focus, reaction time, and cognitive function during competition. However, caffeine habituation and genetic sensitivity to caffeine (CA) limit efficacy. Paraxanthine (PX) is a metabolite of caffeine reported to possess nootropic properties. This study examined whether ingestion of PX with and without CA affects pre- or post-exercise cognitive function. METHODS: 12 trained runners were randomly assigned to consume in a double-blind, randomized, and crossover manner 400 mg of a placebo (PL); 200 mg of PL + 200 mg of CA; 200 mg of PL + 200 mg of PX (ENFINITY®, Ingenious Ingredients); or 200 mg PX + 200 mg of CA (PX+CA) with a 7-14-day washout between treatments. Participants donated fasting blood samples and completed pre-supplementation (PRE) side effects questionnaires, the Berg-Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (BCST), and the Psychomotor Vigilance Task Test (PVTT). Participants then ingested the assigned treatment and rested for 60 minutes, repeated tests (PRE-EX), performed a 10-km run on a treadmill at a competition pace, and then repeated tests (POST-EX). Data were analyzed using General Linear Model (GLM) univariate analyses with repeated measures and percent changes from baseline with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: BCST correct responses in the PX treatment increased from PRE-EX to POST-EX (6.8% [1.5, 12.1], p = 0.012). The error rate in the PL (23.5 [-2.8, 49.8] %, p = 0.078) and CA treatment (31.5 [5.2, 57.8] %, p = 0.02) increased from PRE-EX values with POST-EX errors tending to be lower with PX treatment compared to CA (-35.7 [-72.9, 1.4] %, p = 0.059). POST-EX perseverative errors with PAR rules were significantly lower with PX treatment than with CA (-26.9 [-50.5, -3.4] %, p = 0.026). Vigilance analysis revealed a significant interaction effect in Trial #2 mean reaction time values (p = 0.049, ηp2 = 0.134, moderate to large effect) with POST-EX reaction times tending to be faster with PX and CA treatment. POST-EX mean reaction time of all trials with PX treatment was significantly faster than PL (-23.2 [-43.4, -2.4] %, p = 0.029) and PX+CA (-29.6 [-50.3, -8.80] %, p = 0.006) treatments. There was no evidence that PX ingestion adversely affected ratings of side effects associated with stimulant intake or clinical blood markers. CONCLUSIONS: Results provide some evidence that pre-exercise PX ingestion improves prefrontal cortex function, attenuates attentional decline, mitigates cognitive fatigue, and improves reaction time and vigilance. Adding CA to PX did not provide additional benefits. Therefore, PX ingestion may serve as a nootropic alternative to CA.

Caffeine Improves Sprint Time in Simulated Freestyle Swimming Competition but Not the Vertical Jump in Female Swimmers.

Caffeine (CAF) has been shown to be an effective ergogenic aid in enhancing sports performance, including vertical jump (VJ), sprint, balance, agility, and freestyle swimming performance (FSP). However, whether acute CAF supplementation improves FSP in moderately trained female swimmers has not been well documented. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of CAF intake on vertical jump, balance, auditory reaction time (ART), and swimming performance in female swimmers. In a double-blind, cross-over design, eight moderately trained female swimmers (age: 21.3 ± 1.4 years, height: 161.2 ± 7.1 cm, body mass: 56.3 ± 6.7 kg, body mass index (BMI): 21.9 ± 1.3 kg/m2, and habitual CAF intake: 246.4 ± 111.4 mg/day) ingested caffeine (CAF) (6 mg/kg) or a placebo (PLA) 60 min before completing VJ, balance, ART, and 25/50 m FSP. CAF supplementation resulted in a significantly lower time both in 25m (p = 0.032) and 50m (p = 0.033) FSP. However, CAF resulted in no significant difference in VJ, ART, and RPE (p > 0.05). Balance test results showed a non-significant moderate main effect (d = 0.58). In conclusion, CAF seems to reduce time in short-distance swimming performances, which could be the determinant of success considering the total time of the race. Thus, we recommend coaches and practitioners incorporate CAF into swimmers' nutrition plans before competitions, which may meet the high performance demands.

Energy intake, hydration status, and sleep of world-class male archers during competition.

BACKGROUND: Nutritional intake and sleep, play an important role for recovery and performance in elite sport but little work has been undertaken in archery. The present study aimed to assess energy intake (EI), hydration status, and sleep parameters in world-class male archers over the course of a four-day competition. METHODS: Results, Conclusions Six male, elite-standard archers participated in the study and measurements of hydration status, EI, competition load, and sleep were recorded throughout each day of competition. RESULTS: Daily energy, carbohydrate, and protein intake ranged between 2,563 and 3,986 kcal, 4 and 7.1 g/kg BM, 2.2 and 3.6 g/kg BM per day, respectively. Thus, archers practiced elements of periodized nutrition such that energy and carbohydrate intake was greater on the high-volume competition days (i.e. days 1 and 3; more numbers of arrows, longer duration, and walking distance) in comparison to low-volume days (days 2 and 4) over the tournament (all p > 0.01). Additionally, urine specific gravity was higher after waking, compared to pre- and post-competition, and before bed (all p < 0.05). This indicates that archers were euhydrated pre- and post-competition and before bedtime, while they were slightly hypohydrated after waking up. Sleep data show that disturbances were kept to a minimum. CONCLUSIONS: Collectively, archers appear capable of periodizing their nutritional intake according to daily physical loading during a tournament whilst, staying euhydrated and maintaining sleep quality. In part, such data can help to explain why these archers experience a sustained level of success.