J Int Soc Sports Nutr [JOURNAL]
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200 papers
The effects of a nutrition education program on nutritional knowledge, eating habits and performance of military athletes from Lebanon.
Sannan N, Younes H, El Helou N
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42396612 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: A longitudinal controlled intervention study aimed to assess the impact of a nutrition education program on Lebanese athletes' nutritional knowledge, eating habits, body composition and performance. METHODS:...
BACKGROUND: A longitudinal controlled intervention study aimed to assess the impact of a nutrition education program on Lebanese athletes' nutritional knowledge, eating habits, body composition and performance. METHODS: A sample of 198 athletes was divided into an intervention group (IG) and a control group (CG). The intervention group followed a 4-month intensive nutrition education program set to ensure sufficient time for meaningful learning and behavior change, while remaining short enough to maintain participant engagement and minimize dropout. The athletes' nutritional status and performance were assessed before and after the intervention using a validated food frequency questionnaire, knowledge and eating habits questionnaires, four 24-h recalls, a beep test to estimate VO2 max and one-repetition maximum tests to measure muscle strength. Paired-sample -tests, McNemar's test and Mixed Factorial Anova test were conducted to examine the effects of the nutritional education program on nutrition knowledge, hydration status, eating habits and performance within both groups. RESULTS: The nutritional knowledge score increased in both groups after the intervention, with a significantly greater improvement of 23% observed in the IG (from 62.6% to 77.1%; < 0.001). The IG also demonstrated a notable improvement in eating habits compared to the CG ( < 0.001). Following the intervention, body fat percentage decreased from 21.3% ± 6.0% to 18.8% ± 6.0% ( < 0.001), and waist circumference significantly decreased in the IG ( < 0.001). The IG increased their consumption of vegetables ( < 0.001) and yogurt ( = 0.002) and decreased their intake of sugars ( < 0.001) and sunflower oil ( = 0.002). Improvements in both aerobic and strength performance were observed in the IG ( < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The nutrition education program led to significant improvements in athletes' nutritional knowledge and eating habits, which consequently resulted in enhanced performance.
Effects of combined versus single supplementation of creatine and beta-alanine on aerobic and anerobic performance: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.
Bai X, Xu T
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42384726 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Creatine (Cr) and -alanine (BA) are among the most studied ergogenic supplements, acting on distinct physiological pathways-Cr facilitates phosphocreatine resynthesis and rapid ATP turnover, while BA elevates...
BACKGROUND: Creatine (Cr) and -alanine (BA) are among the most studied ergogenic supplements, acting on distinct physiological pathways-Cr facilitates phosphocreatine resynthesis and rapid ATP turnover, while BA elevates intramuscular carnosine to enhance acid-base buffering. Although both compounds improve high-intensity performance independently, the ergogenic potential of their combined use remains uncertain. OBJECTIVE: To systematically evaluate and compare the isolated and combined effects of Cr and BA supplementation on aerobic and anaerobic performance indices using a network meta-analytic approach. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (to August 2025) identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining Cr, BA, or Cr + BA supplementation (≥2 weeks) in healthy adult athletes. Fifty-two RCTs (PEDro ≥ 6) met the inclusion criteria. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed within random effects models. Performance outcomes included sprint, jump, agility, upper- and lower-body muscular endurance (UME, LME), and repeated-sprint ability (RSA). RESULTS: Cr supplementation significantly improved sprint performance (SMD = -0.64; = 0.04), jump performance (SMD = 0.33; = 0.002), RSA (SMD = -0.78; = 0.01), and UME (SMD = 0.43; = 0.01) versus placebo, with scores ≥ 0.90 across these domains. In contrast, BA supplementation produced non-significant or context-specific effects, and combined Cr + BA showed no synergistic benefits. Agility and LME outcomes remained unaffected ( > 0.05). Heterogeneity ranged from low to moderate (I = 0-73%), with no global inconsistency or substantive publication bias. CONCLUSION: Evidence indicates Cr supplementation alone yields the most consistent improvements in high-intensity and anaerobic performance by enhancing phosphocreatine recovery and neuromuscular output. BA's buffering advantage appears task-specific and insufficient to augment Cr's ergogenic efficacy. Co-supplementation of Cr and BA offers no additional advantage beyond Cr monotherapy. Standardized, long-term, multi-arm RCTs are warranted to further clarify potential interactive mechanisms and sex or sport-specific responses.
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J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42376725 · Publisher ↗
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Body fat estimation in the Mexican women's national soccer team: a cross-sectional agreement study between a derived Mexican Football Federation anthropometric equation and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.
Herrera-Amante CA, Ríos-Limas I, Carvajal-Veitía W … +6 more , Yáñez-Sepúlveda R, Morón-López CD, Mendoza-Sánchez KJ, Figueroa-Conde JA, Ramos-García CO, López-Gil JF
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42365438 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Precise assessment of body composition is fundamental for monitoring training adaptations, guiding nutritional strategies, and informing performance-related decision-making in elite female soccer. Dual-energy...
BACKGROUND: Precise assessment of body composition is fundamental for monitoring training adaptations, guiding nutritional strategies, and informing performance-related decision-making in elite female soccer. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is considered a reference method; however, its limited accessibility restricts routine use in high-performance settings. Existing anthropometric equations often lack population-specific validation, particularly for elite Mexican female soccer players. This study aimed to derive and internally validate an anthropometric equation for estimating body fat percentage (%BF) and to evaluate its agreement with DXA. METHODS: Twenty-seven elite players from the Mexican Women's National Team underwent DXA assessment and International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK)-standardized anthropometry during a training camp. Sample-size adequacy was assessed a posteriori. A multiple linear regression model was derived using the sum of eight skinfolds (8SF) and waist girth (WG) as predictors. Regression assumptions were verified through residual diagnostics, and multicollinearity was assessed using variance inflation factors. Predictive performance was evaluated using mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and standard error of estimate (SEE). Agreement with DXA was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman analysis. Internal validation was performed using leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV). The six historical anthropometric equations were additionally refitted to the present sample to enable a like-for-like comparison of predictor structures. RESULTS: The Mexican Footbal Federation equation (%BF = 0.12 × 8SF +0.39 × WG - 17.0) demonstrated moderate agreement with DXA (ICC = 0.71; mean bias: -0.05%; 95% LOA: -4.61% to +4.70%). The model explained 54% of the variance in DXA %BF (² = 0.54; ²-adjusted = 0.50) and showed acceptable predictive performance (LOOCV ² = 0.50; RMSE = 2.33%; MAE = 1.86%; SEE = 2.47%). After refitting each of the six historical anthropometric equations to the present sample, the Mexican Footbal Federation predictor combination retained the lowest RMSE (2.33% vs. 2.55-2.93%) and the highest ICC (0.71 vs. 0.44-0.63), supporting that the model's advantage stems from its predictor structure rather than calibration on the test data. CONCLUSIONS: The Mexican Football Federation equation provides a population-specific, field-applicable tool for estimating %BF in elite Mexican female soccer players. External validation in larger and more diverse cohorts is required before its widespread application.
Dietary interventions interact with the perception of effort and enhance endurance performance: a brief narrative review.
Strasser B, Burtscher J, Álvarez-Herms J … +3 more , Kopp M, Pageaux B, Burtscher M
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42338317 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Exercise tolerance is a pivotal factor in determining athletic competitive success, as well as mobility and quality of life in elderly individuals and those afflicted by chronic ailments. Since tolerance to e...
BACKGROUND: Exercise tolerance is a pivotal factor in determining athletic competitive success, as well as mobility and quality of life in elderly individuals and those afflicted by chronic ailments. Since tolerance to endurance exercise is closely related to the perception of effort, any measure that influences this perception may also impact endurance performance. METHODS: The aim of this brief review was to evaluate how dietary interventions can improve endurance performance by reducing perceived effort. We contextualize our review within theoretical frameworks that consider effort perception to be a key regulator of endurance performance. Next, we integrate evidence on the ergogenic effects of various dietary interventions with existing knowledge on the perception of effort. RESULTS: Dietary interventions may enhance endurance performance by improving motor command transmission, slowing fatigue development and related compensatory increase in motor command, and/or modifying the activity of brain networks involved in effort perception and fatigue. Beta-alanine, caffeine or carbohydrate mouth rinsing are examples of evidence-based ergogenic aids. The impact on endurance performance is achieved through their potential to overcome cardiorespiratory and metabolic limitations or through modulation of the central nervous system. Other dietary supplements, such as branched-chain amino acids, citrulline, taurine, and probiotics, may indirectly impact performance by influencing tolerance to physical exertion. CONCLUSION: While current evidence supports a key role for dietary interventions on endurance performance by influencing individuals' perceived effort, more research is needed to determine the optimal doses and precise formulations for different sports, in order to employ a personalized strategy.
Caffeine makes a splash: a systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis exploring the effects of caffeine intake on swimming performance.
Wang Z, Qiu B, Bao J … +5 more , Diao P, Hamlin M, Del Coso J, Grgic J, Petersen C
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42323844 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Evidence for acute caffeine supplementation in swimming remains inconsistent across reviews, likely due to between-study heterogeneity and methodological differences. METHODS: Five databases were searched for...
BACKGROUND: Evidence for acute caffeine supplementation in swimming remains inconsistent across reviews, likely due to between-study heterogeneity and methodological differences. METHODS: Five databases were searched for randomized placebo-controlled crossover trials exploring the effects of caffeine on swimming performance in competitive swimmers. Performance outcomes were pooled as standardized mean differences (SMD; Hedges' g), with time outcomes sign-reversed so that positive values indicated improved performance. Dependence among multiple outcomes within studies was addressed using three-level random-effects models (REML). As a supplementary, interpretable metric, log ratios of means (lnRoM) were meta-analysed and expressed as percentage change. Post-exercise blood lactate (mmol/L) was pooled as mean differences (MD). Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2 and certainty of evidence using GRADE. Prespecified exploratory moderator analyses examined potential effect modification (dose, timing, distance, administration form, stroke, gender, and athlete level). RESULTS: Thirteen studies were included (144 men and 48 women), which contributed 28 performance effect sizes. Caffeine improved swimming performance (SMD = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.20 to 0.94; = 0.005), corresponding to a +1.71% improvement in lnRoM (95% CI: +1.01% to +2.41%; < 0.001). Heterogeneity was substantial (I² = 64.7%) and primarily between studies. Eight studies contributed 24 blood lactate effect sizes. In the meta-analysis, caffeine increased post-test lactate (MD = 0.85 mmol/L, 95% CI: 0.22 to 1.49; = 0.016) with high heterogeneity (I² = 76.5%). Exploratory moderator analyses suggested a possible dose-related pattern for swimming performance, with larger pooled effects at ≥6 mg/kg (SMD = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.52 to 1.38) than at <6 mg/kg (SMD = 0.22, 95% CI: -0.15 to 0.60; = 0.017). Other performance moderators did not show clear between-subgroup differences. For lactate, exploratory subgroup analyses suggested larger increases in freestyle and short-distance events, although these patterns were more sensitive to modelling assumptions and should be interpreted cautiously. CONCLUSION: Acute caffeine ingestion confers a moderate ergogenic benefit for swimming performance (SMD = 0.57, 1.7% improvement) and is associated with higher post-test blood lactate (MD = 0.85 mmol/L). Dose (≥6 mg/kg) may be associated with larger performance benefits, whereas lactate responses appear more pronounced in freestyle and shorter events. However, these subgroup findings are hypothesis-generating and require exploration.
The impact of (poly)phenol-rich sugarcane extract intervention on markers of gastrointestinal integrity and systemic inflammation in response to exertional-heat stress.
Hewawansa UHAJ, Henningsen K, Vilela Silva Daniel N … +6 more , In S, Sugay G, Houghton MJ, Barber E, Williamson G, Costa RJS
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42316869 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Exertional-heat stress (EHS) perturbs gastrointestinal integrity, leading to systemic inflammation that may warrant medical attention. The study aimed to determine the effects of a (poly)phenol-rich sugarcane...
BACKGROUND: Exertional-heat stress (EHS) perturbs gastrointestinal integrity, leading to systemic inflammation that may warrant medical attention. The study aimed to determine the effects of a (poly)phenol-rich sugarcane extract (PRSE) beverage and gel interventions on biomarkers of intestinal epithelial integrity and systemic immune responses to an EHS challenge. METHOD: Using a double-blind placebo-controlled design, participants ( = 14) were randomly allocated to complete two EHS (i.e. 2 h running at 60% in 34.4 °C ambient temperature) trials, with at least one-week washout. Participants consumed 2 × 270 mL beverages daily for 14 days before EHS, and 1 × 270 mL beverage pre-EHS and a gel sachet every 20 min during EHS. Beverages and gels were either PRSE (beverage: 10% w/v, gel: 46% w/v) or carbohydrate-matched placebo. Whole blood samples were collected pre-EHS, immediately post-EHS and 30 min, 1 h, and 2 h post-EHS, and analyzed for plasma concentrations of cortisol, I-FABP, sCD14, and systemic inflammatory cytokines. RESULTS: Compared with placebo, the PRSE trial exhibited higher rectal temperature ( = 0.046) and physiological strain index ( = 0.010). No Trial × Time interaction was observed for I-FABP; however, pre-EHS plasma I-FABP concentration was lower in PRSE compared to placebo. Plasma IL-8 concentration increased over time ( < 0.001) that was attenuated by PRSE compared with placebo ( = 0.023). Exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms (Ex-GIS) incidence was high in both trials, while average symptom severity was lower with PRSE. CONCLUSION: Two weeks of PRSE supplementation with a carbohydrate-containing beverage during EHS may provide modest advantages to intestinal epithelial integrity and systemic inflammatory, without further exacerbating Ex-GIS.
Effects of carnosine supplementation on physical endurance: a placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial.
O'Toole TE, Wingard CJ, Bariess SK … +4 more , Crandell CE, Amraotkar AR, Gao H, Bhatnagar A
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42308284 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Carnosine (β-alanine-L-histidine) is an endogenous dipeptide found in abundance in highly metabolic tissues such as skeletal muscle and the brain, where it is thought to play a role in intracellular buffering...
BACKGROUND: Carnosine (β-alanine-L-histidine) is an endogenous dipeptide found in abundance in highly metabolic tissues such as skeletal muscle and the brain, where it is thought to play a role in intracellular buffering, and thereby, promote anaerobic glycolysis. Due to its perceived ability to support muscle energetics, carnosine, and its precursor, β-alanine, have found widespread use as performance-enhancing supplements. Nevertheless, the utility and efficacy of carnosine in enhancing physical performance have not been rigorously evaluated. METHODS: We conducted a placebo-controlled clinical trial in which 299 participants were randomized to consume either placebo or carnosine-containing capsules (2 g per day). Several assessments of physical performance (hand grip strength, bilateral calf raise, 2-min step test, gait speed) were measured before initiating supplementation (Baseline: Visit-2) and after approximately 6 week (Visit-3) and 12 week (Visit-4) of supplementation. At each clinical visit, blood and urine were also collected. For Visit-3 and Visit-4, absolute changes and percent changes from baseline were calculated for each physical function measurement. RESULTS: At Visit-3 we observed a statistically significant ( = 0.018) increase in the calf raise measure (number of bi-lateral flexions to exhaustion) for those in the carnosine supplementation group younger than 40 years of age. At Visit-4 we observed a statistically significant ( = 0.010) increase in the number of steps for males in the carnosine supplementation group greater than 40 years age and a trend toward significance ( = 0.06) for all males taking carnosine. No significant ( < 0.05) differences were observed in the carnosine versus placebo supplementation groups for any other physical performance measure. CONCLUSIONS: In select age groups, carnosine supplementation improves muscular and cardiorespiratory endurance but not grip strength. The benefits appeared to be limited to males. Carnosine supplementation is likely to have beneficial effects in those undertaking short-term repetitive movements.
Effects of caffeine gum on same-day and subsequent neuromuscular performance under a standardized resistance-priming condition in male basketball players.
Wang J, Li B, Huang Y … +3 more , Tu Y, Yang H, Chai Y
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42247558 · Full text
PURPOSE: This study examined whether 3 mg·kg (CAF3) and 6 mg·kg (CAF6) caffeine gum, administered before a standardized resistance-priming (RP) protocol, produced additional neuromuscular performance advantages over plac...
PURPOSE: This study examined whether 3 mg·kg (CAF3) and 6 mg·kg (CAF6) caffeine gum, administered before a standardized resistance-priming (RP) protocol, produced additional neuromuscular performance advantages over placebo (PLA) at 1 h, 24 h, and 48 h in male basketball players. METHODS: Fifteen male basketball players completed three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover conditions: PLA+RP, CAF3+RP, and CAF6+RP. After 15 min of gum chewing, participants performed a standardized warm-up followed by RP consisting of 3 × 3 back squats at 85% 1RM. Mean concentric velocity (MV) was recorded during RP. Performance tests were conducted at 1 h, 24 h, and 48 h post-RP and included isometric mid-thigh pull peak force and 200-ms rate of force development, countermovement jump height, 20-m sprint, Y-shaped reactive agility, and Lane Agility Test. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models adjusted for experimental period and administration sequence. RESULTS: Significant dose × time interactions were observed for all performance outcomes except the Lane Agility Test. At 1 h, CAF3+RP and CAF6+RP produced superior performance compared with PLA+RP in isometric strength, explosive power, sprint, and reactive agility outcomes. No significant differences were observed between CAF3 and CAF6. At 24 h and 48 h, no additional between-condition advantages were found for either caffeine dose compared with PLA. Barbell MV during RP was higher under caffeine conditions than PLA, indicating greater RP training output. CONCLUSION: Within a standardized RP context, CAF3 and CAF6 caffeine gum were associated with improved same-day neuromuscular performance and higher RP barbell velocity compared with PLA, but no additional between-condition advantages were observed at 24 h or 48 h. Because this study did not include pre-intervention baseline testing, a caffeine-only condition, or a no-RP control condition, the findings should be interpreted as caffeine-related differences within an RP context rather than direct evidence of the independent effects of caffeine, RP, or their interaction.
An extract from whole coffee cherry improves time trial performance, but not muscle glycogen resynthesis, in trained cyclists.
Pavis GF, Kingma RL, Nemzer BV … +3 more , Abshiru N, Wall BT, Stephens FB
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42234539 · Full text
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to test the hypothesis that a whole coffee cherry extract concentrated in caffeine and polyphenols would increase exercise performance and muscle glycogen resynthesis. METHODS: Twelve traine...
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to test the hypothesis that a whole coffee cherry extract concentrated in caffeine and polyphenols would increase exercise performance and muscle glycogen resynthesis. METHODS: Twelve trained cyclists (11 male, 1 female; V̇O: 55 ± 2 mL·kg·min) took part in a double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial. Participants consumed either a coffee cherry extract supplement containing 200 mg caffeine and 15 mg polyphenols (CB) or placebo (PLA), before exercising for 30 min on a cycle ergometer at 79 ± 1% V̇O followed by a 15 min time trial (TT1). A second supplement was then consumed with 1 g·kg bm carbohydrate and a second time trial (TT2) was performed the following morning. Blood samples were collected throughout, and muscle biopsies were collected immediately after TT1 (0 h), and at 4 and 24 h. RESULTS: Plasma caffeine and chlorogenic acid concentrations increased during exercise and subsequent recovery in CB compared to PLA ( < 0.001). Total work performed during TT1 was 4.6% ± 1.5% greater with CB than PLA (3.14 ± 0.15 vs. 3.02 ± 0.17 kJ·kg; Hedge's g [95% confidence interval] = 0.8 [0.2, 1.4]; < 0.05). Perceived exertion was lower during steady-state exercise with CB ( < 0.05); respiratory exchange ratio did not differ. From 0 to 4 h recovery, muscle glycogen content increased similarly in PLA and CB by 64 ± 13 and 44 ± 10 mmol·kg dw, respectively, and by 53 ± 8 and 45 ± 10 mmol·kg dw from 4 to 24 h ( < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: We report that an extract from whole cherry containing a low dose of caffeine and polyphenols is ergogenic but was not shown to enhance muscle glycogen resynthesis following post-exercise consumption of 1 g·kg bm carbohydrate. Registered with clinicaltrials.gov on 10/01/2022 as NCT05404841 (URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05404841).
Effects of exercise on metabolic risk, cardiovascular fitness, and body composition in elderly women of the past decade: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Shen J, Peng J, Luan Y … +3 more , Liu X, Li J, Wu J
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42228407 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Age-related reductions in physical activity and unfavorable body composition changes promote metabolic dysfunction and cardiovascular risk elevation in older populations. Due to estrogen-related factors, diff...
BACKGROUND: Age-related reductions in physical activity and unfavorable body composition changes promote metabolic dysfunction and cardiovascular risk elevation in older populations. Due to estrogen-related factors, differences in cardiovascular risks, and musculoskeletal conditions, exercise may be one of the most accessible and widely applicable lifestyle interventions for older women. A comprehensive and systematic search has not yet been carried out on the effects of exercise on cardiovascular risk and its related indicators in elderly women. This meta-analysis evaluates exercise effects on metabolic risk, cardiovascular health, and body composition in healthy elderly women. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, CNKI, VIP, Wanfang, and Sinomed (2014-2024) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing supervised exercise with nonexercise controls. Data were analyzed with fixed- and random-effect models in Stata 17.0. The Cochrane RoB2 tool assessed bias risk, while the certainty of evidence was evaluated through the GRADE approach. RESULTS: Twenty-three RCTs (33 intervention arms, 23 controls) were included. Exercise significantly reduced triglycerides (TG) (-8.56 mg/dL, 95% CI: -16.72, -0.40), total cholesterol (TC)(-26.67 mg/dL, 95% CI: -34.92, -18.42), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (-23.77 mg/dL, 95% CI: -34.48, -13.05), blood glucose (Glu) (-5.59 mg/dL, 95% CI: -10.12, -1.06), and C-reactive protein (CRP) (-0.86 mg/L, 95% CI: -1.37, -0.35). Cardiovascular improvements included increased VO2peak (+2.78 mL/kg/min, 95% CI: 1.87, 3.70) and reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP) (-8.35 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (-3.26 mmHg). Regarding body composition, relative body fat (RF, i.e. body fat percentage) decreased (-2.47%, 95% CI: -3.42, -1.53), but no significant changes were observed in body weight, trunk fat mass (TFM), waist circumference (WC), fat-free mass (FFM), or skeletal muscle mass (SMM). According to the GRADE framework, the evidence was of moderate certainty for reductions in TC, TG, RF, VO₂peak, and SBP; and low certainty for all other outcomes. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis provides evidence that appropriate exercise (aerobic, resistance, combined exercise) effectively reduces cardiovascular risk factors in elderly women via dual mechanisms of body composition remodeling and metabolic homeostasis enhancement, with particular efficacy in lipid regulation and blood pressure control.
12‑weeks fisetin supplementation and interval resistance with aerobic training: changes in Maresin‑1 and inflammatory markers in men with obesity: a randomized controlled trial.
Alipour M, Saeidi A, Hejazi K … +2 more , Laher I, Zouhal H
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42218768 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Obesity is characterized by low‑grade chronic inflammation and impaired insulin sensitivity. Maresin‑1 (MaR1), a specialized pro‑resolving mediator, plays a critical role in terminating inflammation and suppo...
BACKGROUND: Obesity is characterized by low‑grade chronic inflammation and impaired insulin sensitivity. Maresin‑1 (MaR1), a specialized pro‑resolving mediator, plays a critical role in terminating inflammation and supporting metabolic homeostasis; however, interventional data in humans remain scarce. This study examined whether fisetin supplementation augments the effects of concurrent interval resistance-aerobic training on Maresin‑1, pro‑inflammatory markers, and insulin resistance in obese men. METHODS: In a 12‑week parallel‑group randomized controlled trial, 44 obese adult males (BMI > 30 kg/m²) completed one of four interventions: control-placebo (CP), fisetin (F) (200 mg/day), training-placebo (TP), or training-fisetin (TF). Training comprised eight resistance exercises at 60% 1RM with active rest followed by progressive aerobic bouts (50%-70% HRmax). Anthropometric and biochemical parameters, including plasma Maresin‑1, interleukin-6 (IL‑6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF‑α), fasting blood glucose (FBS), insulin, and HOMA‑IR, were assessed pre‑ and post‑intervention. RESULTS: Significant group × time interactions were observed for Maresin‑1 ( = 0.034), IL‑6 ( = 0.001), TNF‑α ( = 0.001), FBS ( = 0.001), insulin ( = 0.001), and HOMA‑IR ( = 0.001). Maresin‑1 increased in the TP ( = 0.001) and TF ( = 0.001) groups. IL‑6 decreased in T ( = 0.006), TF ( = 0.001), and F ( = 0.013) groups. TNF‑α decreased in all intervention groups (F, TP, and TF) ( = 0.002). FBS, insulin, and HOMA‑IR decreased significantly in all active arms ( = 0.003), with the greatest reductions in the TF group. CONCLUSION: Twelve weeks of concurrent interval resistance-aerobic training, especially when combined with fisetin, improved inflammatory resolution (↑Maresin‑1, ↓IL‑6, and ↓TNF‑α) and metabolic control (↓FBS, ↓insulin, and ↓HOMA‑IR) in obese men. The synergy between exercise‑induced adaptations and fisetin's anti‑inflammatory properties offers a promising non‑pharmacological strategy for mitigating obesity‑related metabolic risk.
Selected immunoendocrine and performance adaptations to upper-body plyometric training and β-alanine supplementation in male swimmers.
Gao H, Yu X, Guo Z
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42218755 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Upper-body plyometric training (PT) enhances neuromuscular performance and power production. However, its application in swimming and its potential interaction with β-alanine (BA) supplementation remain large...
BACKGROUND: Upper-body plyometric training (PT) enhances neuromuscular performance and power production. However, its application in swimming and its potential interaction with β-alanine (BA) supplementation remain largely unexplored. Therefore, this study investigated the combined effects of upper-body PT and BA supplementation on performance and immunoendocrine adaptations in trained male swimmers. METHODS: Thirty trained male swimmers (age: 25.7 ± 2.6 years; height: 1.83 ± 0.07 m; body mass: 81.6 ± 3.2 kg) were randomly assigned to one of three groups: PT + BA, PT + placebo (PL), or control (CON). Each session consisted of upper-body plyometric exercises performed for 3-4 sets of 12-16 repetitions with 120 s rest between sets. β Assessments conducted before and after the intervention included medicine ball throw (MBT), push-up endurance, one-repetition maximum (1RM) bench press, swim ergometer peak and mean power output (PPO and MPO), and 50-, 100-, and 200-m freestyle performance. Blood samples were also collected pre- and post-intervention to determine testosterone, cortisol, and immunoglobulin A (IgA) concentrations. RESULTS: Both PT groups showed significant improvements in all performance outcomes compared with baseline (all < 0.05), with effect sizes ranging from small to moderate. CONCLUSIONS: Eight weeks of upper-body PT significantly enhanced upper-body power, anaerobic capacity, and swimming performance in trained male swimmers. BA supplementation further amplified these training-induced adaptations and promoted a more favorable immunoendocrine adaptation profile. β
The effect of probiotic and synbiotic supplementation on sleep parameters in exercised population: a systematic review and synthesis without meta-analysis (SWiM) of randomized controlled trials.
Salehi Asl M, Ahmadi F, Ershadmanesh M … +5 more , Mortezapour E, Torki F, Danandeh A, Dehghani E, Danandeh K
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42184272 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Sleep is crucial for recovery and optimal performance in athletes; however, poor sleep is common during periods of intensive training or competition. The microbiota-gut-brain axis suggests probiotics and synb...
BACKGROUND: Sleep is crucial for recovery and optimal performance in athletes; however, poor sleep is common during periods of intensive training or competition. The microbiota-gut-brain axis suggests probiotics and synbiotics could modulate sleep, but evidence in exercised populations is limited. OBJECTIVE: To systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of probiotic and synbiotic supplementation on sleep in exercised populations, using a Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) approach. METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest were searched up to September 2025. Eligible studies were RCTs including exercised individuals, testing probiotics or synbiotics, and reporting sleep outcomes. Data extraction, risk of bias assessment (RoB 2), and narrative synthesis followed SWiM guidelines. RESULTS: Six RCTs ( = 180) were included: four probiotic and two synbiotic interventions lasting 4-17 weeks. Populations included athletes from multiple sports across four continents. Nine of twelve primary sleep outcomes favored supplementation, with significant effects for probiotics (combined < 0.01) and synbiotics ( < 0.001). Benefits were most consistent for subjective sleep quality and, in some cases, sleep latency. Secondary outcomes showed occasional reductions in stress, anxiety, and fatigue. CONCLUSION: Probiotic and synbiotic supplementation may improve sleep in exercised populations, especially perceived quality and latency. Evidence supports cautious, adjunctive use, but larger, standardized trials are needed to confirm effects.PROSPERO registration number: CRD420251151264.
Micronutrient intake and predictors of adequacy in female collegiate dancers consuming low-energy diets.
Brooks S, Frost A, Sanders DJ … +6 more , Vatne E, Calamoneri T, Stroh E, Jordan A, Nickerson BS, Saenz C
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42175943 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Collegiate dancers face high training loads, aesthetic pressures, and limited access to nutritional resources, elevating their risk for low energy intake and micronutrient insufficiency. Although inadequate m...
BACKGROUND: Collegiate dancers face high training loads, aesthetic pressures, and limited access to nutritional resources, elevating their risk for low energy intake and micronutrient insufficiency. Although inadequate micronutrient intake has been documented, prior studies are largely limited to single sites, ballet-focused programs, or short assessment periods, making findings difficult to generalize and leaving long-term habitual intake across diverse collegiate dance styles poorly understood. Given the elevated risk for low energy intake and nutrient inadequacy in this population, further investigation is warranted. This study aimed to evaluate habitual micronutrient intake in female collegiate dancers relative to the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) and sports nutrition guidelines, and to identify dietary predictors of micronutrient adequacy. METHODS: Thirty female collegiate dancers from three U.S. university dance programs (mean age = 20.4 years; BMI = 21.1 kg/m²) completed the Diet History Questionnaire III. Total energy and micronutrient intake from food and supplements were quantified for calcium, iron, folate, omega‑3 fatty acids, and vitamins B12, C, and D. Adequacy relative to the RDA/Adequate Intake (AI) was determined for each nutrient. Fisher's exact tests compared adequacy between supplement users and non‑users. Logistic regression models evaluated predictors of meeting the RDA/AI, including total energy intake (per 100 kcal), supplement use, and relevant food‑group intake. RESULTS: Most dancers consumed below the RDA/AI for calcium (20/30; 67%), iron (24/30; 80%), vitamin D (20/29; 69%), omega‑3 fatty acids (19/30; 63%), and folate (17/29; 59%). Conversely, a majority met the RDA for vitamin B12 (17/26; 65%) and vitamin C (20/30; 67%). When compared with sports nutrition recommendations, an even greater proportion fell short for calcium (29/30), omega‑3 fatty acids (30/30), vitamin D (22/29), and vitamin C (14/30). Supplement use was significantly associated with meeting the RDA for iron (75% vs. 11.5%; = 0.018; OR = 19.14), folate (87.5% vs. 23.8%; = 0.003; OR = 19.61), vitamin B12 (100% vs. 47.1%; = 0.009; OR = Inf), vitamin C (94.1% vs. 46.2%; = 0.009; OR = 16.68), and vitamin D (56.3% vs. 0%; = 0.001; OR = Inf). Total energy intake significantly predicted adequacy for calcium ( = 0.020; OR = 1.27), iron ( = 0.0002; OR = 1.69), omega‑3 fatty acids ( = 0.007; OR = 1.27), folate ( = 0.004; OR = 1.57), and vitamin B12 ( = 0.004; OR = 1.39), but not vitamin C or D. Food‑group intake showed limited predictive value; only red/orange vegetable intake predicted vitamin C adequacy. CONCLUSIONS: Inadequate micronutrient intake was highly prevalent among collegiate dancers, particularly for calcium, iron, vitamin D, omega‑3 fatty acids, and folate. Supplement use improved adequacy for several nutrients, yet observed intake distributions suggest supplementation often compensates for, but not necessarily corrects, underlying dietary shortfalls. Total energy intake emerged as a consistent predictor of adequacy across multiple nutrients, underscoring the central role of sufficient energy intake in supporting micronutrient exposure. Even dancers meeting the RDA frequently fell below athlete‑specific recommendations, highlighting the need for targeted strategies that address both energy intake and micronutrient support within collegiate dance programs.
Post-competition recovery in natural physique athletes: body composition, metabolic adaptation, and refeeding responses.
Buechel C, Pumpa K, Etxebarria N … +4 more , Helms ER, Ashton L, Mitchell L, Minehan M
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42175739 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Post-competition refeeding in physique athletes is poorly understood. We aimed to characterize physiological and psychological changes in natural physique athletes across contest preparation and a 12-week rec...
BACKGROUND: Post-competition refeeding in physique athletes is poorly understood. We aimed to characterize physiological and psychological changes in natural physique athletes across contest preparation and a 12-week recovery period, and to explore the influence of post-competition refeeding strategies. METHODS: Nineteen natural physique athletes (8 male, 11 female) were assessed at baseline (~21 weeks pre-competition; T0), 1-2 weeks pre-final competition (Tpre), and 2, 6, and 12 weeks post-competition (T2, T3, T4). Measures included body composition (DXA), resting metabolic rate (RMR), thyroid hormones (FSH, FT3, FT4), absolute strength (IMTP peak force), and psychometric questionnaires (POMS, ASSQ, EDE-QS). RESULTS: Body weight decreased from T0 to Tpre (-7.1 kg [-8.3, -5.9]), driven primarily by FM loss (-5.8 [-6.8, -4.8]), with modest FFM loss (-1.7 [-2.6, -0.9]). Both FM and FFM rebounded predominantly within the first 6 weeks post-competition (Tpre→T3: +3.4 [2.3, 4.4] and +2.7 [1.8, 3.6], respectively). By T4, FM was not clearly different from T0 (-0.8 [-1.8, 0.3], while FFM exceeded T0 (+1.6 [0.7, 2.5]). RMR·FFM showed a small, uncertain reduction from T0 to Tpre (-0.9 kcal·kgFFM·day [-2.7, 0.9]), followed by increases from Tpre to T4 (+2.4 [0.7, 4.1]). Thyroid hormones decreased from T0 to Tpre (FT3: -1.4 [-1.8, -0.9], FT4: -1.4 [-2.6, -0.2]) and returned within reference ranges by T4. Strength was broadly maintained, while mood and sleep worsened from T0 to Tpre, and improved by T4. Eating-disorder symptom severity was highest during preparation and declined across the recovery period. In exploratory Bayesian modelling, larger post-competition increases in energy intake were associated with greater recovery of adjusted RMR. CONCLUSIONS: Contest preparation was accompanied by fat loss, thyroid hormone suppression, and modest reductions in RMR, with recovery characterized by early increases in RMR and tissue restoration following competition. Larger post-competition increases in energy intake were associated with faster recovery of adjusted RMR, although FM regain occurred concurrently. Post-competition recovery should be treated as an active, structured phase, with refeeding individualized to athlete goals and psychological readiness and guided by multi-system monitoring rather than RMR alone. Athletes and coaches should plan ahead for this phase, with structured increases in food intake, realistic expectations around fat gain, and avoidance of unnecessarily prolonged restriction that may delay physiological recovery.
The interplay between vitamin D status and exerkine signaling: implications for exercise adaptation in athletes: narrative review.
Kim DH
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42175738 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Exercise elicits systemic adaptations through a coordinated network of exercise-responsive signaling molecules termed exerkines. Vitamin D, classically linked to calcium homeostasis, has been increasingly cha...
BACKGROUND: Exercise elicits systemic adaptations through a coordinated network of exercise-responsive signaling molecules termed exerkines. Vitamin D, classically linked to calcium homeostasis, has been increasingly characterized as a pleiotropic hormone with immunomodulatory and myotropic actions that may be relevant to training adaptation and recovery in athletic populations. OBJECTIVE: This narrative review synthesizes mechanistic and clinical evidence examining whether vitamin D status and supplementation are associated with modulation of selected exercise-responsive exerkines, and it introduces a unifying conceptual model, the "vitamin D-exerkine axis", to frame potential points of interaction between vitamin D signaling and the exercise-induced secretome. METHODS: A narrative literature review was conducted using searches of PubMed and Google Scholar, incorporating mechanistic, observational, and intervention studies in animal and human models relevant to vitamin D signaling and exercise-responsive exerkines. Evidence was synthesized qualitatively to distinguish biological plausibility from athlete-specific causal inference. RESULTS: Across experimental systems, vitamin D signaling via the vitamin D receptor (VDR) has been associated with expression of several exerkines implicated in inflammation, metabolism, and muscle remodeling. Evidence most consistently discussed in the literature involves IL-6, irisin/FNDC5, myostatin, and anti-inflammatory cytokines (e.g. IL-10), although effect direction and magnitude appear context-dependent and are influenced by baseline vitamin D status, study design, and outcome timing. A bidirectional relationship is plausible: exercise may upregulate VDR expression in skeletal muscle and has been associated with transient changes in circulating vitamin D metabolites, while vitamin D sufficiency may shape aspects of the post-exercise inflammatory and metabolic milieu. Collectively, these observations support a working model in which vitamin D status could modulate parts of the exercise-response signaling network, but definitive athlete-focused causal evidence remains limited. CONCLUSION: The proposed vitamin D-exerkine axis offers a hypothesis-generating conceptual model for integrating nutrition endocrinology with exercise physiology. Current data support biological plausibility for interaction, yet heterogeneity in study populations, endpoints, and supplementation protocols constrains strong causal inference in athletes. Future research should prioritize well-controlled trials that account for baseline 25(OH)D status, define dose-response relationships, test sex- and sport-specific effects, and incorporate tissue-level endpoints to clarify mechanisms and relevance to training adaptation and recovery.
Effects of carbohydrate-electrolyte solutions with and without L-menthol on hydration and performance recovery following simulated firefighting exercise.
Hsu YJ, Ho CS, Chang CH … +2 more , Chuang TW, Shang SH
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42152771 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Firefighting tasks performed in full protective equipment (PPE) impose extreme thermal and physical strain, providing a model of high-intensity exercise with substantial fluid and electrolyte loss. This study...
BACKGROUND: Firefighting tasks performed in full protective equipment (PPE) impose extreme thermal and physical strain, providing a model of high-intensity exercise with substantial fluid and electrolyte loss. This study compared the effects of plain water (W), a carbohydrate-electrolyte solution (CES), and a menthol-supplemented carbohydrate-electrolyte solution (MCES) on hydration and performance recovery during the first hour of post-exercise recovery. METHODS: Twenty-four male firefighters completed a standardized simulated firefighting protocol in protective clothing. Participants were randomly assigned to W, CES, or MCES ( = 8 each) and consumed 1.0 L of fluid during 60 minutes of recovery. Hydration status was evaluated using body-mass restoration, salivary osmolality, urine specific gravity, urine color, and urinary electrolytes. Renal markers, lactate clearance, cardiovascular and thermal responses, thirst ratings, and lower-limb explosive power were also assessed. RESULTS: Body mass restoration showed significant group effects, with MCES greater than W and CES at 60 min ( < 0.05). Rehydration rate was higher for both CES and MCES than W ( < 0.05). Salivary osmolality and urinary sodium favored electrolyte solutions over water ( < 0.05), while urine specific gravity was lower in MCES compared with W and CES ( < 0.05). Blood urea nitrogen and BUN/creatinine ratios were higher in W than both electrolyte conditions at 30 and 60 min ( < 0.05). Lactate clearance was reduced in W compared with CES and MCES ( < 0.05). Jump height declined from pre- to post-recovery in the W and CES groups but was maintained within the MCES group. CONCLUSIONS: Carbohydrate-electrolyte solutions improved hydration compared with water. L-menthol did not enhance rehydration but maintained explosive performance, supporting its role as a perceptual adjunct to electrolyte strategies for recovery after exercise in protective clothing.
Acute beetroot juice ingestion fails to improve sprint performance and neuromuscular function in trained male sprinters: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
López-Samanes Á, Moreno-Pérez D, Aguilar-Navarro M … +6 more , Muñoz A, López-Moreno M, Garcés-Rimón M, Díez-Vega I, Roberts J, Del Coso J
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42148901 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effect of beetroot juice ingestion on sprint performance and neuromuscular properties of male trained sprinters. METHODS: Twelve male sprinters (24.3 ± 4.8 ye...
INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effect of beetroot juice ingestion on sprint performance and neuromuscular properties of male trained sprinters. METHODS: Twelve male sprinters (24.3 ± 4.8 years) participated in a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled study with two experimental trials after the ingestion of 70 mL beetroot juice (containing 6.4 mmol NO-) or 70 mL placebo drink (containing 0.04 mmol NO-). Participants performed a countermovement jump, a squat jump, and 60 and 100 m sprint tests at 150 minutes after ingestion. Before and after these performance tests, contractile properties of the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, gastrocnemius lateralis, and gastrocnemius medialis muscles were measured with tensiomyography. RESULTS: Salivary concentrations of NO- and nitrite NO- were also measured and in comparison to the placebo drink, the intake of beetroot juice increased salivary concentrations of NO- (from 230 ± 435 vs 6164 ± 3370 μM; = < 0.001, ES = 1.53) and NO- (130 ± 131 vs 4509 ± 4895 μM; = 0.018; ES = 1.63). Beetroot juice ingestion did not affect countermovement jump height (44.12 ± 6.14 vs 43.6 ± 6.29 cm; = 0.400; ES = -0.25), squat jump height (42.02 ± 4.92 vs 41.91 cm; = 0.911; ES = 0.04), 60 m sprint time (7.55 ± 0.32 vs 7.58 ± 0.32 seconds; = 0.407; ES = -0.24), or 100 m sprint time (12.57 ± 0.65 vs 12.51 ± 0.62 seconds; = 0.343; ES = 0.29). The tensiomyography analysis did not report any difference in the contractile properties of the muscles analyzed ( = 0.065-0.914), except for the biceps femoris in the relaxation time variable ( = 0.047). CONCLUSION: Acute ingestion of 70 mL beetroot juice containing 6.4 mmol of NO- did not enhance sprint performance or the neuromuscular function of male trained sprinters.Trial registration: The study was retrospectively registered in ClinicalTrials.gov with the following ID: 5-56NCT06675682 by 1 November 2024.
Creatine monohydrate for lean mass, strength, and bone density in postmenopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Naddafha S, Antonio J, Kreider RB … +1 more , Stout JR
J Int Soc Sports Nutr · 2026 Dec · PMID 42141930 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Menopause is accompanied by accelerated losses in muscle mass and strength and declining bone density. Whether creatine monohydrate benefits postmenopausal women are uncertain. METHODS: We systematically revi...
BACKGROUND: Menopause is accompanied by accelerated losses in muscle mass and strength and declining bone density. Whether creatine monohydrate benefits postmenopausal women are uncertain. METHODS: We systematically reviewed randomized, placebo-controlled trials examining creatine supplementation, with or without resistance training (RT), in postmenopausal women. MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from 2000 to August 2025, supplemented by trial registries and reference-list screening. Eligible studies included postmenopausal women aged ≥40-45 years, intervention durations ≥6 weeks for primary analyses, and outcomes including DXA-derived lean mass, one-repetition maximum (1RM) strength, bone mineral density, physical function, and safety. Dual screening, duplicate extraction, and Cochrane RoB 2 assessment were performed. Random-effects meta-analysis used the Paule-Mandel estimator for τ² with Hartung-Knapp-Sidik-Jonkman adjustment. Heterogeneity (τ², I²), 95% prediction intervals, subgroup analyses by RT status, exploratory dose/duration meta-regression, small-study effects, and GRADE certainty were assessed. RESULTS: Seven RCTs ( = 608 randomized; duration 12-104 weeks, median 38 weeks) enrolled postmenopausal women (mean age ≈ 62 y). Lean mass (k = 5; = 338) favored creatine: mean difference (MD) + 0.37 kg (95% CI + 0.05 to + 0.69; I² = 25%; τ² = 0.01; 95% PI -0.10 to + 0.84). Leg-press 1RM (k = 3; = 111) improved with creatine: MD + 7.5 kg (95% CI + 2.2 to + 12.8; I² = 0%). Benefits were evident when creatine ≥ 5 g·day⁻¹ was combined with RT; trials using ≤ 3 g·day⁻¹ without RT showed no measurable effect. Bone density was unchanged overall. Adverse events were mild and similar to placebo; renal indices were unchanged. Risk of bias was mostly "some concerns;" one large, preregistered, double-blind RCT was at low risk. CONCLUSIONS: In postmenopausal women, creatine, particularly ≥ 5 g·day⁻¹ with RT, yields small but meaningful gains in lean mass and strength without evidence of harm. Effects on bone density remain unclear.Registration: This review was not prospectively registered. De-identified data and supplementary materials were deposited on OSF after completion of the analysis (DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/BVTRZ).
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