Work

Variations in immune fatigue and physical performance among amateur soccer players during fasting

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines the impact of Ramadan fasting on immune fatigue and physical performance in amateur soccer players. Ten male players (22.8 ± 3.5 years) from the Wilaya of Bejaia participated in this longitudinal study. Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) were assessed as markers of muscle damage and systemic inflammation. Explosive muscle power was evaluated using Squat Jump (SJ) and Countermovement Jump (CMJ) tests. Data were collected before, during, and after Ramadan. CRP levels significantly decreased during fasting (p = 0.000, effect size = 0.75), suggesting anti-inflammatory effects. However, CPK levels showed no significant changes (p = 0.279, effect size = 0.35), indicating minimal muscle damage. SJ (p = 0.937, effect size = 0.12) and CMJ (p = 0.426, effect size = 0.22) performances remained stable, suggesting fasting did not impair explosive muscle power. These findings highlight Ramadan fasting's potential immune benefits without compromising performance, given proper training and nutrition. Future studies should examine training intensity, dietary habits, and compare amateur with professional athletes to better understand physiological adaptations. Larger sample sizes are recommended to improve generalizability.

Source: Fizicko vaspitanje i sport kroz vekove

DOI: 10.5937/spes2501047f

Authors: Yakoub Fenni, Mourad Ikiouane, Kettab Khaled, Salim Zaabar, Sif Rouabi, Ameur Chafa

Institutions: University of Béjaïa, Centre Universitaire Nour Bachir El Bayadh, University of Jijel, University of Batna 2

Language: English

Topic: Dietary Effects on Health

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W4412976370