Weight Reduction Period Research Articles

Enhancing performance through biochemical monitoring and nutritional support in female weightlifters during pre-competition weight reduction: a randomized trial.

Weight reduction is a common practice among female weightlifters before competitions to qualify for specific weight classes. However, this process can adversely affect their physical performance and health. This study aimed to investigate the impact of physiological and biochemical monitoring and nutritional support on the competitive state of female weightlifters during the pre-competition weight reduction period. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 28 female weightlifters from Sichuan Province, China, randomly assigned to the experimental group (n = 14) or the control group (n = 14). Both groups followed their regular training schedules. The experimental group received personalized nutritional monitoring and supplementation, including detailed assessments, dietary logs, weekly consultations, and targeted supplements based on biochemical indicators and training needs. The control group continued with their standard diet and training without additional interventions. Serum indicators, fatigue scales, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores were monitored (a total of 5 tests). The experimental group exhibited a significant reduction in creatine kinase levels by the fourth week compared to both baseline and the first week (p < 0.05), and maintained higher levels of testosterone, testosterone/cortisol ratio, and hemoglobin than the control group from the second week onwards (p < 0.05). Conversely, the control group showed an increase in creatine kinase and a decrease in testosterone and testosterone/cortisol ratio over the same period (p < 0.05). By the fourth week, the experimental group also reported lower fatigue and better sleep quality, as indicated by lower PSQI scores, compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Personalized nutritional supplementation has an improving effect on biochemical indicators, fatigue, and sleep quality in female weightlifters during the pre-competition weight reduction period. Implementing biochemical monitoring and personalized nutritional support during this period is a key strategy for enhancing the competitive performance of female weightlifters.

Maintenance energy requirements in cats following controlled weight loss: An observational study

There is a paucity of information regarding the phenomenon of weight regain after successful weight reduction in cats. This study aimed to estimate post-weight reduction maintenance energy requirements (MER) required to maintain stable weight in a group of pet cats. Nineteen cats that had successfully completed a controlled weight reduction programme were enrolled. For inclusion, at least 2 months of follow-up had to be available for review, and the maximum change in weight during maintenance was ±2%. Post-weight-reduction MER was estimated by determining dietary energy consumption from owner diary records. The Friedman test was used to compare bodyweight and energy intake at different stages of weight management. Simple and multiple linear regression were used to identify factors associated with post-weight-reduction MER.The median (interquartile range) duration of weight maintenance was 179 days (119–408 days) and, during this time, MER was 273 ± 56.7 kJ per kg0.67 ideal bodyweight (IBW) per day. Post-weight-reduction MER was greater than metabolisable energy intake at the end (233 ± 29.5 kJ IBW per kg0.67 per day; P < 0.001) but not the start (255 ± 38.6 kJ per kg0.67 IBW per day; P = 0.148) of the weight reduction period. Using simple and multiple linear regression, the only variable that was associated with post-weight reduction MER was the mean ME intake during weight reduction (r2 = 0.349, P = 0.008). Post-weight-reduction MER at the lower limits of MER recommendations for pet cats might predispose to weight regain during the weight maintenance phase.

Obesity, Nutrition and Heart Rate Variability.

Heart rate variability (HRV) represents the activity and balance of the autonomic nervous system and its capability to react to internal and external stimuli. As a measure of general body homeostasis, HRV is linked to lifestyle factors and it is associated with morbidity and mortality. It is easily accessible by heart rate monitoring and gains interest in the era of smart watches and self-monitoring. In this review, we summarize effects of weight loss, training, and nutrition on HRV with a special focus on obesity. Besides weight reduction, effects of physical activity and dietary intervention can be monitored by parameters of HRV, including its time and frequency domain components. In the future, monitoring of HRV should be included in any weight reduction program as it provides an additional tool to analyze the effect of body weight on general health and homeostasis. HRV parameters could, for example, be monitored easily by implementation of an electrocardiogram (ECG) every two to four weeks during weight reduction period. Indices presumibly showing beneficial changes could be a reduction in heart rate and the number of premature ventricular complexes as well as an increase in standard deviation of normal-to-normal beat intervals (SDNN), just to name some.

Relações hídricas em hastes florais de copo-de-leite colhidas em diferentes estádios de abertura

Cut flowers are a well established product and require conservation techniques that help keep postharvest quality for marketing. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate different opening stages of calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) cut stems and their influence on posthaverst. Calla lily stems were harvested in the morning, according to the following opening stages: closed spathe, semi-closed spathe (1/3 open), semi-open spathe (2/3 open) and fully open spathe. Once selected and standardized, stems were placed in a controlled room at 21 ± 2 °C and relative humidity of 75 ± 5%, for eight days. The evaluations were conducted daily, observing water pH, commercial quality analysis, width and length of the spathe, fresh weight of stem, water absorption and transpiration. The experimental design was completely randomized, with four treatments (opening stages), five replicates and two stems by plot. The model used was split plot in time, with harvest stages as plots, and evaluation days as subplots. Calla lily harvested at closed spathe and semi-closed spathe (1/3 open), showed spathe opening, although it did not achieve fully spathe expansion, had higher water uptake and hydration of flower stems, and increased water retention capacity by floral tissues until saturation, followed by a period of weight reduction caused by transpiration rates greater than absorption.

Association of the FTO and ADRB2 genes with body composition and fat distribution in obese women

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate whether the polymorphisms of the fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO, rs9939609:T>A) and the β2-adrenergic receptor gene (ADRB2, rs1042714:Gln>Glu) are associated with weight loss in dieting obese premenopausal women and the association of these SNPs with body weight, body composition and distribution of fat mass. Methods75 obese (BMI>30) premenopausal women participated in the intervention including a 3-month weight reduction period and a subsequent 9-month weight maintenance period. Weight and height were measured and BMI calculated. Body composition and fat mass distribution were assessed by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. ResultsAt baseline, the AA homozygotes of the FTO gene were 10.1kg heavier (p=0.031), they had higher BMI (p=0.038), and greater waist and greater hip circumference (p=0.08 and p=0.067, respectively) compared to the TT homozygotes. Gln/Gln carriers of the ADRB2 gene had smaller gynoid fat-% compared with both the Gln/Glu and Glu/Glu carriers (p=0.050 and p=0.009, respectively). The Gln homozygotes had also smaller total body fat-% and higher total body lean mass-% than that of the Glu homozygotes (p=0.018 and p=0.019, respectively). ConclusionFTO genotype was associated with body weight in general, whereas ADRB2 genotype was associated with fat distribution. However, all women in the study group lost weight similarly independently of their genotypes. Neither the FTO nor ADRB2 genotype had statistically significant effect on weight reduction or weight maintenance.

The A-allele of the common FTO gene variant rs9939609 complicates weight maintenance in severe obese patients

The A-allele of the fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene variant rs9939609 has been associated with increased body weight, whereas no effect on weight loss during weight reduction programs has been observed. We questioned whether the AA-genotype interferes with weight stabilization after weight loss. We conducted a monocentric, longitudinal study involving obese individuals. The FTO gene variant rs9939609 was genotyped in participants attending a weight reduction program that was divided into two phases: a weight reduction period with formula diet (12 weeks) and a weight maintenance phase (40 weeks). Body weight, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure and concentrations of blood glucose, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein and triglycerides were determined in week 0 (T(0)), after 12 weeks (T(1)) and at the end in week 52 (T(2)). A total of 193 obese subjects aged between 18 and 72 years (129 female, 64 male; initial body weight: 122.4±22.3 kg, initial BMI: 41.8±6.7 kg m(-2)) were included. Genotyping revealed 32.1% TT-, 39.4% AT- and 28.5% AA-genotype carriers. At T (0), carriers of the AA-genotype had significantly higher body weight (P=0.04) and BMI (P=0.005) than carriers of the TT-genotype. Of the 193 participants, 68 discontinued and 125 completed the program. Dropout rate was not influenced by genotype (P=0.33). Completers with AA-genotype showed significantly lower additional weight loss during the weight maintenance phase than TT-genotype carriers (P=0.02). Furthermore, among participants facing weight regain during weight maintenance (n=52), more subjects were carrying the AA-genotype (P=0.006). No influence of genotype on weight reduction under formula diet was observed (P=0.32). In this program, the AA-genotype of rs9939609 was associated with a higher initial body weight and did influence success of weight stabilization. Thus, emphasizing the maintenance phase during a weight reduction program might result in better success for AA-genotype carriers.

Energy expenditure and intake in judo athletes during training camp

For optimal athletic performance, recovery and body composition, athletes need to synchronize diet and physical activi ties. Especially in judo athletes, where competition is organiz ed in weight categories, the balance between energy intake and energy expenditure is of uttermost importance [1]. Data concerning energy intake during training and competition preparation – often a weight reduction periodare available [2,3,4]. However, the literature lacks data on the energy balance during the training period of judo athletes. When not in weight reduction period, special attention needs to be given to energy intake, providing sufficient energy for basal metabolism, physical activities, and recovery without caloric overshoot [5]. A highly positive energy balance during training periods may result in excessive weight gain with negative consequences for the following weight reduction period. In order to properly harmonize an athlete’s dietary intake and training program, assessing the energy balance and physical activity status of the athlete is required [6,7,8]. Energy expenditure during training in judo athletes is not well described. The training program of a judo athlete is diverse, and consists of judo specific training (technique and randori) and non-specific training (resistance training, endurance training), [9,10]. Randori, which is a type of fight training, can be categorized as a high intensity activity with an intermittent pattern of activity and relative rest more or less comparable with a competition fight [10]. The diversity of the training program, the unstructured activities during the randori training, and the contact with the opponent, make it very difficult to estimate energy expenditure with most of the available methods. Monitoring should be done in the athlete’s normal environment enabling maintenance of habitual activity participation and dietary intake. Therefore, the methods used to determine activity pattern and dietary intake should preferably be as accurate as possible and at the same time easy in use with a minimal burden on the athlete. An activity diary (AD) is considered to be one of the most accurate subjective techniques, despite the high participant burden [8]. Though self-report methods can be a principal source of information, other approaches or the use of combined measu res may be needed to characterize better an athlete‘s activity level. Reporting the results with different instruments provides a more complete description of activity levels and permits triangulation of outcomes [11]. The SenseWear Armband (SWA) combines five different sensors into one device attached as an armband around the upper arm. The SWA has shown to give reliable estimates of TEE in healthy free living adults [12,13,14]. Johannsen et al. [14] found a significant agreement between the SWA and doubly labeled water estimates of TEE. Fruin and Rankin [15] found the SWA to provide valid and reliable estimates of energy expenditure at rest and on an ergometer as compared to indirect calorimetry.

Anabolic and Catabolic Hormones and Energy Balance of the Male Bodybuilders During the Preparation for the Competition

The purpose of the study was to investigate simultaneous effects of energy balance, caloric intake, and the hormonal anabolic-catabolic balance in bodybuilders prior to competition. Fourteen male bodybuilders took part in an 11-week energy-restricted period to reduce body fat. The subjects were divided into the energy-restricted group (ERG) (n = 7), who were preparing for the competition, or the control group (CG) (n = 7) who continued to train regularly and did not change their dietary or training pattern. Participants were tested at 11 weeks (T1), 5 weeks (T2), and 3 days (T3) before competition for diet, body composition, and fasting hormonal assessment. Body mass and body fat percentage of ERG were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased during the study period. In ERG, insulinlike growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin decreased significantly during the 11-week weight-reduction period (p < 0.05). Testosterone was decreased only from week 11 to week 5 (from 20.3 +/- 6.0 to 18.0 +/- 6.8 nmol/L). Changes in IGF-I concentration were significantly related to changes in insulin (r = 0.741), fat mass (r = 0.705), lean body mass (r = 0.696), and body mass (r = 0.652). Changes in insulin concentrations were significantly related to changes in fat mass (r = 0.630) and lean body mass (r = 0.725). These data indicate that severe energy restriction to extremely low body energy reserves decreases significantly the concentrations of 3 anabolic pathways despite high protein intake. Monitoring of insulin and IGF-1 concentration is suggested to prevent losses in muscle mass in energy-restricted conditions. Other nutritional strategies might be needed to prevent possible catabolic effect during preparation of bodybuilders to competition.

Moderate energy restriction with high protein diet results in healthier outcome in women.

BackgroundThe present study compares two different weight reduction regimens both with a moderately high protein intake on body composition, serum hormone concentration and strength performance in non-competitive female athletes.MethodsFifteen normal weighted women involved in recreational resistance training and aerobic training were recruited for the study (age 28.5 ± 6.3 yr, height 167.0 ± 7.0 cm, body mass 66.3 ± 4.2 kg, body mass index 23.8 ± 1.8, mean ± SD). They were randomized into two groups. The 1 KG group (n = 8; energy deficit 1100 kcal/day) was supervised to reduce body weight by 1 kg per week and the 0.5 KG group (n = 7; energy deficit 550 kcal/day) by 0.5 kg per week, respectively. In both groups protein intake was kept at least 1.4 g/kg body weight/day and the weight reduction lasted four weeks. At the beginning of the study the energy need was calculated using food and training diaries. The same measurements were done before and after the 4-week weight reduction period including total body composition (DXA), serum hormone concentrations, jumping ability and strength measurementsResultsDuring the 4-week weight reduction period there were no changes in lean body mass and bone mass, but total body mass, fat mass and fat percentage decreased significantly in both groups. The changes were greater in the 1 KG group than in the 0.5 KG group in total body mass (p < 0.001), fat mass (p < 0.001) and fat percentage (p < 0.01). Serum testosterone concentration decreased significantly from 1.8 ± 1.0 to 1.4 ± 0.9 nmol/l (p < 0.01) in 1 KG and the change was greater in 1 KG (30%, p < 0.001) than in 0.5 KG (3%). On the other hand, SHBG increased significantly in 1 KG from 63.4 ± 17.7 to 82.4 ± 33.0 nmol/l (p < 0.05) during the weight reducing regimen. After the 4-week period there were no changes in strength performance in 0.5 KG group, however in 1 KG maximal strength in bench press decreased (p < 0.05) while endurance strength in squat and counter movement jump improved (p < 0.05)ConclusionIt is concluded that a weight reduction by 0.5 kg per week with ~1.4 g protein/kg body weight/day can be recommended to normal weighted, physically active women instead of a larger (e.g. 1 kg per week) weight reduction because the latter may lead to a catabolic state. Vertical jumping performance is improved when fat mass and body weight decrease. Thus a moderate weight reduction prior to a major event could be considered beneficial for normal built athletes in jumping events.

Three-month weight reduction does not compromise bone strength in obese premenopausal women

Weight loss is claimed to cause bone loss. This prospective 12-month study evaluated effects of 3-month group-based weight loss with VLED on body composition, bone mass and strength (DXA and pQCT), muscle performance and biomarkers of bone turnover. The assessments were done at baseline and at 3 and 12 months. Sixty-two women of the recruited 75 obese (BMI>30) premenopausal women who completed the study were divided into 3 groups based on the tertiles of weight loss at 3 months. The group means of weight losses were 15.5% (Large), 10.5% (Medium) and 5.9% (Low). Statistical analyses were based on analysis of covariance. Bone turnover increased during the weight reduction period in all groups but practically returned to baseline during the weight maintenance phase. In general, mean bone changes remained marginal (∼±1%) and the amount of weight reduction was not associated with bone loss. The only notable change was the 4% decline in bending strength at the distal radius. These results indicate that in obese premenopausal women, 3-month weight reduction resulted in increased bone turnover but was not deleterious for bone mass or strength at 3 months or after 9-month weight maintenance.

Increases in ghrelin and decreases in leptin without altering adiponectin during extreme weight loss in male competitive bodybuilders

The aim of this study was to investigate responses of ghrelin, leptin, and adiponectin to a weight reduction period of 10 weeks in male subjects with high lean body mass and low body fat values. Fourteen male bodybuilders (7 competitors: 28.3 ± 10.3 years, 175.3 ± 5.4 cm, 82.2 ± 9.3 kg; 7 controls: 22.4 ± 3.0 years, 182.4 ± 6.9 cm, 85.3 ± 10.5 kg) participated in this study. The subjects were tested 3 times: 11 weeks (TEST1), 5 weeks (TEST2), and 3 days (TEST3) before the national championships. Testing procedure included dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scan; calculation of daily energy intake and expenditure; and venous blood sampling for fasting ghrelin, leptin, and adiponectin. In the competitors' group, a significant ( P < .05) 4.1-kg loss of body fat was observed that resulted in 6.5% ± 1.5% of the body fat at the end of the study. Ghrelin increased significantly by 20.4% by TEST2. By TEST3, ghrelin was further increased by 6% ( P > .05). The pattern of leptin was opposite, with a significant 27.7% decrease at TEST2 and no further decrease at TEST3 ( P > .05). No significant change was observed in adiponectin concentration during the study. In the control group, no significant changes in biochemical parameters were observed. In conclusion, ghrelin concentration significantly increases, but is suppressed in conditions of limited energy availability that is accompanied by significant body mass loss in male subjects with initial low body fat values.

Adipose Triglyceride Lipase and Hormone-Sensitive Lipase Protein Expression Is Decreased in the Obese Insulin-Resistant State

Obesity is associated with increased triacylglycerol (TAG) storage in adipose tissue and insulin resistance. The mobilization of stored TAG is mediated by hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) and the recently discovered adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL). The aim of the present study was to examine whether ATGL and HSL mRNA and protein expression are altered in insulin-resistant conditions. In addition, we investigated whether a possible impaired expression could be reversed by a period of weight reduction. Adipose tissue biopsies were taken from obese subjects (n = 44) with a wide range of insulin resistance, before and just after a 10-wk hypocaloric diet. ATGL and HSL protein and mRNA expression was determined by Western blot and quantitative RT-PCR, respectively. Fasting insulin levels and the degree of insulin resistance (using the homeostasis model assessment index for insulin resistance) were negatively correlated with ATGL and HSL protein expression, independent of age, gender, fat cell size, and body composition. Both mRNA and protein levels of ATGL and HSL were reduced in insulin-resistant compared with insulin-sensitive subjects (P < 0.05). Weight reduction significantly decreased ATGL and HSL mRNA and protein expression. A positive correlation between the decrease in leptin and the decrease in ATGL protein level after weight reduction was observed. Finally, ATGL and HSL mRNA and protein levels seem to be highly correlated, indicating a tight coregulation and transcriptional control. In obese subjects, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia are strongly associated with ATGL and HSL mRNA and protein expression, independent of fat mass. Data on weight reduction indicated that also other factors (e.g. leptin) relate to ATGL and HSL protein expression.

The preconceptual contraception paradigm: obesity and infertility

Obesity is a major health problem across the world. Recent editorials suggest that obese patients should be denied treatment of any kind aimed to improve ovulation rates and achieve pregnancy until they have reduced their BMI. We propose that this approach is not a resolution of the problem, but indeed may amplify the maternal and perinatal complications attributed to fertility centres. Obesity independent of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with anovulation, and minimal weight loss alone is an effective therapy for induction of ovulation in both obese women and obese PCOS women. Consequently, lifestyle programmes encouraging weight loss should be considered to be an ovulation induction therapy and due consideration for a potential pregnancy in an obese woman given. We propose that women with a BMI in excess of 35 kg m(2) should lose weight prior to conception-not prior to receiving infertility treatment. Therefore, clinicians undertaking the management of infertility in obese women should adopt measures to reduce their body mass prior to exposing them to the risks of pregnancy. We advocate that this approach should be aggressively managed including pharmacological strategies; intrinsic in this programme is the use of contraception and high-dose folic acid during that period of preconceptual weight reduction.

Analyse longitudinale des variations de la composition corporelle et du métabolisme de base d'adolescents obèses pris en charge en institution ou à domicile

The prevalence of obesity in children has increased dramatically during the past decades, and requires efficient care. Objectives. – To determine changes in anthropometric parameters and basal metabolic rate (BMR) in obese adolescents during and after 2 types of weight-reduction programs. Subjects and methods. – Twenty-six adolescents (group I, Z-score of BMI = 4.72) followed a 9-month-weight reduction program including a moderate energy restriction and regular physical activities in a specialized institution. In addition, 39 adolescents (group E, Z-score of BMI = 2.83) followed at home a 9-month-weight reduction program including medical and dietetic advices. Body composition (by impedancemetry) and BMR (by indirect calorimetry) were assessed before the beginning (M0), 4 months after (M4) and at the end (M9) of the programs, then 4 months (M13) and 16 month (M25) after the end of the weight-reduction programs. Results. – Twenty-two adolescents in group I and 20 adolescents in group E completed the study. At M0, age, body weight (BW), fat-free mass (FFM) and BMR of subjects of group I were higher (1.0 year, 36 %, 30 % and 23 %, respectively, P < 0.001), than those of group E. Pubertal stage and percentage of fat mass (FM) were not significantly different between the 2 groups. At M9, adolescents of group I showed significant reductions in BW and FM (–19 and –37 %, respectively, P < 0.001), but not significant differences in FFM. In addition, BMR decreased significantly between M0 and M4, both in absolute value (–6.7%, P < 0.001) and after adjustment for FFM (–5.8%, P < 0.001), and the difference was maintained until M9. Between M9 and M13, BW and Z-score of BMI were maintained in 12 adolescents, but increased (+9.7% and 14.8%, respectively, P < 0.001) in 10 adolescents. However, BMR did not change significantly in all adolescents. Between M13 and M25, BW, FM, FFM and BMR increased significantly (+ 13%, + 34%, + 6% et + 5%, respectively, P < 0.001). During the 25 month period, adolescents of group E showed significant increases in BW, FFM and BMR (+ 8%, + 14% and + 10%, respectively, P < 0.001), and maintained their Z-score and FM. Conclusion. – The reduction in BMR during the weight-reduction program at the institution could contribute to body weight regain in the post-obese adolescents if they do not maintain the lifestyle habits taught during the weight-reduction period. In other respects, Z-score was stabilized in 51% of domiciled obese adolescents.

Longitudinal changes in activity patterns, physical capacities, energy expenditure, and body composition in severely obese adolescents during a multidisciplinary weight-reduction program

To determine the longitudinal changes in body composition, physical capacities, and time and energy expenditure (EE) devoted to various activities in the course of a 9-month weight-reduction period. Longitudinal, clinical intervention including lifestyle education, moderate energy restriction, progressive training, and psychological follow-up. A total of 27 (13 boys and 14 girls) severely obese adolescents (mean BMI: 33.9 kg/m2; 41.5% fat mass (FM)), aged 12-16 y. Before the beginning and after the weight-reduction program, body composition was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), physical capacities by multistage treadmill test, and EE both by whole-body calorimetry and in free-living conditions using the heart rate-recording method. During 8 months of the weight-reduction period, type and duration of each activity were recorded using a daily controlled activity diary. One boy resigned after 5 months. Body weight (BW) and FM decreased (-19 and -42%, respectively, P<0.001) both in boys and in girls, but fat-free mass (FFM) decreased only in girls (-6%, P<0.001). VO2max (l/min) did not vary significantly, but strength and fitness were improved (P<0.001). Time and EE spent at sedentary activities decreased significantly (P<0.001) to the benefit of moderate (recreational) activities and total physical activities (P<0.001) at the institution during the weekdays, and at home during the weekends and holidays. The great BW and FM losses, preservation of FFM, and improvement of physical capacities of obese adolescents obtained under experimental conditions were associated with increases in leisure physical activities in free-living conditions at the expense of sleep and sedentary activities.

Gender Difference in the Psychological Response to Weight Reduction in Judoists

0537 There have been no studies which have examined the differences in psychological changes on a gender-based evaluation during weight reduction for weight classed sports such as boxing and judo. PURPOSE: To examine any gender-related differences in the psychological response to weight reduction in judoists. METHODS: A total of 43 subjects participated in the study. Thirty subjects (22 males and 8 females) who required weight reduction were defined as the weight reduction (WR) group, and the remaining 13 subjects (5 males and 8 females) who did not need weight reduction were defined as the non-WR group. Anthropometric parameters, nutritional intake and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) scores were measured before (pre-values) and after weight reduction. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the rate of decrease in body weight (BW) between genders in this group. The scores of Fatigue, Tension, Vigor and TMD (total mood disturbance score) in POMS significantly increased after weight reduction only in WR group males (P<0.01, P<0.05, P<0.05, P<0.05, respectively). In WR group females, the pre-values of the POMS scores (TMD, confusion, tension and depression) were relatively high, because these values were higher than the pre-values in the male WR group (P<0.05) and in the female non-WR group, though the difference was not significant. Furthermore, in the female WR group the anger and depression scores decreased and the vigor score increased after weight reduction compared with the pre-values, though the differences were not significant. The change in the TMD score significantly correlated with the changes in BW during the weight reduction period in males (P<0.05), but not in females. CONCLUSION: Psychological stress in females may be caused by anxiety concerning the idea of weight reduction, whereas in males it may be caused by the actual weight reduction itself.

Gender Difference in the Psychological Response to Weight Reduction in Judoists

0537 There have been no studies which have examined the differences in psychological changes on a gender-based evaluation during weight reduction for weight classed sports such as boxing and judo. PURPOSE: To examine any gender-related differences in the psychological response to weight reduction in judoists. METHODS: A total of 43 subjects participated in the study. Thirty subjects (22 males and 8 females) who required weight reduction were defined as the weight reduction (WR) group, and the remaining 13 subjects (5 males and 8 females) who did not need weight reduction were defined as the non-WR group. Anthropometric parameters, nutritional intake and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) scores were measured before (pre-values) and after weight reduction. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the rate of decrease in body weight (BW) between genders in this group. The scores of Fatigue, Tension, Vigor and TMD (total mood disturbance score) in POMS significantly increased after weight reduction only in WR group males (P<0.01, P<0.05, P<0.05, P<0.05, respectively). In WR group females, the pre-values of the POMS scores (TMD, confusion, tension and depression) were relatively high, because these values were higher than the pre-values in the male WR group (P<0.05) and in the female non-WR group, though the difference was not significant. Furthermore, in the female WR group the anger and depression scores decreased and the vigor score increased after weight reduction compared with the pre-values, though the differences were not significant. The change in the TMD score significantly correlated with the changes in BW during the weight reduction period in males (P<0.05), but not in females. CONCLUSION: Psychological stress in females may be caused by anxiety concerning the idea of weight reduction, whereas in males it may be caused by the actual weight reduction itself.

EFFECTS OF CARBOHYDRATE REFEEDING ON PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSES AND PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE FOLLOWING ACUTE WEIGHT REDUCTION IN COLLEGIATE WRESTLERS

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of carbohydrate refeeding on intermittent sprint exercise, blood lactate response, and mood following a typical weight-reduction program practiced by college wrestlers. Fifteen collegiate wrestlers from the University of Northern Iowa completed 3 trials of intermittent arm cranking and a mood inventory prior to weigh-ins (baseline), after weigh-ins, and 1 hour postcon-sumption of either 1.5 g carbohydrate (CHO)/kg body mass carbohydrate beverage (25% solution) or placebo taken within 1 hour after weigh-ins. Blood lactate responses were determined with each trial. Repeated measures analysis of variance indicated no significant interaction between group and trial for total work (p = 0.08), blood lactate (p = 0.29), positive mood (p = 0.49), or negative mood (p = 0.78). Simple effects analysis indicated a significant difference in lactate response between trials (p = 0.002); however, no difference for work (p = 0.75), positive mood (p = 0.13), or negative mood (p = 0.08). The results of this study suggest that intermittent sprint exercise, blood lactate response, and mood were not positively affected by ingestion of CHOs following an acute weight-reduction period.

A weight reduction program preserves fat-free mass but not metabolic rate in obese adolescents.

To determine the effects of a multidisciplinary weight reduction program on body composition and energy expenditure (EE) in severely obese adolescents. Twenty-six severely obese adolescents, 12 to 16 years old [mean BMI: 33.9 kg/m(2); 41.5% fat mass (FM)] followed a 9-month weight reduction program including moderate energy restriction and progressive endurance and resistance training. Body composition was assessed by DXA, basal metabolic rate by indirect calorimetry, and EE by whole-body indirect calorimetry with the same activity program over 36-hour periods before starting and 9 months after the weight reduction period. Adolescents gained (least-square mean +/- SE) 2.9 +/- 0.2 cm in height, lost 16.9 +/- 1.3 kg body weight (BW), 15.2 +/- 0.9 kg FM, and 1.8 +/- 0.5 kg fat-free mass (FFM) (p < 0.001). Basal metabolic rate, sleeping, sedentary, and daily EE were 8% to 14% lower 9 months after starting (p < 0.001) and still 6% to 12% lower after adjustment for FFM (p < 0.05). Energy cost of walking decreased by 22% (p < 0.001). The reduction in heart rate during sleep and sedentary activities (-10 to -13 beats/min), and walking (-20 to -25 beats/min) (p < 0.001) resulted from both the decrease in BW and physical training. A weight reduction program combining moderate energy restriction and physical training in severely obese adolescents resulted in great BW and FM losses and improvement of cardiovascular fitness but did not prevent the decline in EE even after adjustment for FFM.

Effects of gender-related weight reduction on the physical condition of male and female college judoists

In order to study the gender-related effects of weight reduction on the physical condition of male and female college judoists during weight reduction periods, we examined changes in anthropometric, nutritional intake and biochemical parameters in 43 male and female college judoists 20 days (pre-weight reduction) before and one day (post-weight reduction) before the game. Subjects were divided into two groups. Thirty subjects (22 males, 8 females) who required weight reduction were defined as the weight reduction (WR) group, and the remaining 13 subjects (5 males, 8 females) were defined as the non-reduction (non-WR) group. In both WR groups, anthropometric parameters and nutritional intake significantly decreased after weight reduction compared to the pre-values. The change ratios of nutritional intake during the weight reduction period in the female WR group were higher than those in the male WR group. Serum lipids and electrolytes significantly decreased after the weight reduction compared to the pre-values in both WR groups. In the female WR group, Cr and UA significantly increased after the weight reduction compared to the pre-values. Although it was not significant, Ht increased after the weight reduction compared to the pre-values only in the female WR group. TP, Cr, UA, BUN, CK, LDH and IgA significantly increased after the weight reduction compared to the pre-values in the weight reduction compared to the pre-values in the male WR group. In contrast, in both non-WR groups, these parameters did not change significantly during the research period. Our findings suggest that nutritional exhaustion and dehydration may be the major effects brought about by energy and fluid restriction in female college judoists during a weight reduction period. On the other hand, in male college judoists undergoing weight reduction, the data suggest that muscle damage and myogenic protein catabolism may be caused chiefly by exercise. These differences may be due to the difference in the method of weight reduction for the different genders, namely, mainly exercise in males and mainly energy and fluid restriction in females.