Work

Strength training and chromium picolinate supplementation do not reduce adiposity or improve muscle morphology in obese rats

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Obesity induces metabolic dysfunctions, such as insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, which negatively affect skeletal muscle remodeling and function. Strength training (ST) is an effective intervention to combat these changes, improving glycemic control, reducing adiposity, and increasing muscle mass. Chromium picolinate (CrPic), a nutritional supplement proposed to improve insulin signaling and protein synthesis, has been commercially promoted as a strategy to improve body composition. Although some mechanistic studies suggest beneficial effects of CrPic, there is limited evidence on its efficacy, particularly in combination with ST. Furthermore, the integrative impact of this association on skeletal muscle morphology and metabolic parameters in obesity remains unclear. Objective: To investigate the effects of strength training combined with CrPic supplementation on skeletal muscle morphology, adiposity, lipid profile, and glucose tolerance in obese rats. Methodology: We employed a 22-week experimental protocol, which was divided into three stages: (1) obesity induction, (2) obesity maintenance, and (3) ST protocol and/or CrPic intervention. We submitted rats to ST three times per week and administered CrPic daily via orogastric gavage. Result: ST combined with CrPic supplementation did not promote a reduction in adiposity or in comorbities such as glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. In relation to biochemical parameters, rats that underwent ST combined with CrPic supplementation had a higher high- density lipoprotein concentration, suggesting a positive effect of ST. ST and CrPic did not promote morphological alterations in skeletal muscles. Conclusion: ST in combination with CrPic supplementation is not an efficient tool to reduce adiposity and increase muscle mass.

Source: Retos

DOI: 10.47197/retos.v70.114584