The Effects of Low Carbohydrates/Ketogenic Diets (Lc/Kd) On Anaerobic Training and Post-Workout Recovery
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Athletes typically require balanced diets that are 50 % carbohydrates, 20 % protein, and 30 % fat. Many athletes believe eating lowcarbohydrate and high-fat diets can help them perform better and support their competitive activities. The relationship between low-carbohydrate diets and anaerobic sports activities has received little attention. This study aimed to look at how a low-carbohydrate/ Ketogenic diet (LC/KD) affected anaerobic exercise, hormonal profiles, and metabolic responses. Participants and Methods: Twelve Healthy athletes took part in this study and underwent the Wingate test twice: once after the normal diet ND (50 percent carbohydrate, 20% protein, 30% fat) and once after 4 weeks of the LC/KD (10 percent carbohydrate, 25 percent protein, 65 percent fat). Venous blood samples were taken before and after the workout to measure insulin, testosterone, GH, cortisol, blood lactate, β hydroxybutyrate, Adrenaline, Noradrenaline, and glucose concentrations. Results: The LC/KD diet significantly increased testosterone and growth hormone (GH) concentrations (0.14 vs 0.25 ng/mL) and (495.3 vs 661 nmol/L), while insulin and cortisol levels decreased (5.21 vs 3.78 IU/mL) and (17.01 vs 16.31 g/dL). The LC/KD diet also reduced blood lactate levels at rest and after exercise (8.95 vs 7.03 mmol/L) while increasing β hydroxybutyrate (0.05 vs 0.173 mmol/L). Glucose levels were lower after consuming LC/KD compared to ND (97.1 vs 81.1 mg/dL). This study found that a CHO deficiency in the diet can cause hormonal and cellular changes that favor the utilization of nonesterified fatty acids and, to a lesser extent, amino acids. Increased Testosterone, Growth Hormone, and Insulin all have metabolic and anabolic effects. Conclusions: Reducing CHO intake for three days increases many hormones such as growth hormone and testosterone whereas decreased insulin and other products. The concept of vasodilating muscle arterioles by modifying eicosanoid production. Eicosanoid, which is reportedly produced in the L- CHO diet, may be responsible for improved muscle oxygenation, which may benefit even the most competitive athletes.
Authors: Louay Labban, Batoul Labban
Institution: University of Kalamoon
Language: English
Topic: Diet and metabolism studies
Subfield: Physiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4405331635