Nutrients

Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

4 pages, 147 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

The Role of Nutrition in Applied Physiology

by Alvaro López-Samanes

Nutrients 2025, 17(7), 1227; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17071227 - 31 Mar 2025

Viewed by 479

Abstract

Nutrition in applied and exercise physiology explores the relationship between nutrients and human body functions, focusing on the biochemical processes involved in the absorption, digestion, and utilization of food, nutrients, and other dietary compounds, as well as their impact on human performance [...] [...] Read more.

Nutrition in applied and exercise physiology explores the relationship between nutrients and human body functions, focusing on the biochemical processes involved in the absorption, digestion, and utilization of food, nutrients, and other dietary compounds, as well as their impact on human performance [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition in Applied Physiology)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

21 pages, 1902 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Patterns, Serum BDNF and Fatty Acid Profiles in Physically Active Male Young Adults: A Cluster Analysis Study

by Monika Johne, Ewelina Maculewicz, Andrzej Mastalerz, Małgorzata Białek, Wiktoria Wojtak, Bartosz Osuch, Małgorzata Majewska, Marian Czauderna and Agnieszka Białek

Nutrients 2024, 16(24), 4326; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16244326 - 15 Dec 2024

Viewed by 1664

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Although physical activity and balanced diet may increase peripheral brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentration, little is known about whether these factors modify BDNF content in physically active individuals and whether the serum fatty acid (FA) profile is related. This study aimed to [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Although physical activity and balanced diet may increase peripheral brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentration, little is known about whether these factors modify BDNF content in physically active individuals and whether the serum fatty acid (FA) profile is related. This study aimed to evaluate quality of diet, identify specific dietary patterns and assess their influence on BDNF and FA levels in serum. It is hypothesized that there is a correlation between diet quality and the concentrations of BDNF and FA in the serum of physically active male individuals. Methods: Physically active young adult male students at Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw (Poland) were enrolled. Dietary patterns were identified with cluster analysis and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) based on responses to a validated food frequency questionnaire, KomPAN^® version 1.1. Results: Consumption of beverages, vegetables, milk, wholemeal bread/rolls, fruit and vegetable juices, butter, tinned vegetables and fruits were significant in the LDA model, in which three clusters were distinguished. Cluster 1 was characterized by more frequent consumption of wholemeal bread/rolls, milk, fruits, vegetables, fruit and vegetable juices and sweetened hot beverages and by significantly greater values for the pro-healthy diet index (p < 0.0001) and diet quality index (p < 0.0001) compared to Clusters 2 and 3. The diet of Cluster 2 was of the worst quality, as indicated by the higher values of the not-healthy diet index. Cluster 1 had the tendency for the highest BDNF levels (of the best quality of diet), and a tendency for decreased BDNF concentration with an increased physical activity level was observed. Conclusions: Physical activity, diet quality and BDNF level depend, correlate and interact with each other to provide both optimal physical and mental health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition in Applied Physiology)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 1352 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Caffeine Enhances Some Aspects of Physical Performance in Well-Trained Hammer and Discus Throwers

by César Gallo-Salazar, Juan Del Coso, Beatriz Lara, Millán Aguilar-Navarro, Verónica Giráldez-Costas, Francisco Areces, Carlos Revuelta, Jorge Gutiérrez-Hellín and Juan José Salinero

Nutrients 2024, 16(22), 3908; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16223908 - 15 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1127

Abstract

Background: Caffeine is a widely recognized ergogenic aid for enhancing exercise performance. However, its effect on throwing performance has been less studied, yielding contradictory results. Objectives: The main aim of the study was to analyze the potential ergogenic effects of a moderate dose [...] Read more.

Background: Caffeine is a widely recognized ergogenic aid for enhancing exercise performance. However, its effect on throwing performance has been less studied, yielding contradictory results. Objectives: The main aim of the study was to analyze the potential ergogenic effects of a moderate dose of caffeine (3 mg·kg⁻¹ body mass) on vertical jump performance and throwing distance during a simulated competition in trained discus and hammer throwers. Methods: In a randomized, counterbalanced, and repeated measures design, 14 well-trained throwers (9 hammer throwers and 5 discus throwers; age 24.8 ± 6.3 years old, training 14.9 ± 5.0 h per week, competing experience 10.5 ± 6.1 years) performed a countermovement jump (CMJ) test, a modified throw, and a complete throw after the ingestion of 3 mg·kg⁻¹ body mass of caffeine or a placebo. Each participant performed three maximal-effort valid modified throws of his/her respective event (i.e., hammer or discus throw), plus three maximal-effort valid official throws (up to five tries, respectively, in case any attempt was called as foul). Throwing distance was measured according to World Athletics regulations using a metal tape, while release speed was assessed with a radar device. After the performance measurements, participants completed a form about side effects prevalence. Results: Caffeine, compared to placebo, increased throw distance (3.0 ± 5.1%, p = 0.048) and speed release (5.7 ± 8.7%, p = 0.03) for the complete throw, and distance (3.6 ± 4.4%, p = 0.01) and speed release (4.8 ± 7.4 %, p = 0.01) for the modified throw. Caffeine ingestion did not significantly improve jump height (1.1 ± 4.3%, p = 0.28), although it improved force and power on braking and the propulsive phases of the CMJ (p < 0.05). Caffeine only increased the prevalence of activeness (p < 0.05). Conclusions: An acute moderate dose of caffeine enhanced hammer and discus throw performance in well-trained throwers during a simulated competitive setting, with minimal adverse side effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition in Applied Physiology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 488 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nutritional Status Impact on Hip Fracture Patients in a Rural Environment

by Ana Martín-Nieto, Pedro Chana-Valero, Jaime Ruiz-Tovar, Gema Escobar-Aguilar, María Simarro-González, Pablo Rodríguez-Bernal and Elena García-García

Nutrients 2024, 16(21), 3622; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16213622 - 25 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1184

Abstract

(1) Background: Hip fractures are highly prevalent traumatic events with significant functional consequences, particularly among the older population. These fractures are associated with increased mortality, postoperative complications, and functional dependence. Medical and nutritional factors such as malnutrition and sarcopenia are crucial for predicting [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Hip fractures are highly prevalent traumatic events with significant functional consequences, particularly among the older population. These fractures are associated with increased mortality, postoperative complications, and functional dependence. Medical and nutritional factors such as malnutrition and sarcopenia are crucial for predicting functional outcomes and mortality in these patients. This study aimed to assess the nutritional status, vitamin D levels, and sarcopenia, as well as their relationship with mortality, mean hospital stay, and 30-day-readmission rate, in patients with hip fracture who underwent surgery in a rural hospital setting. (2) Methods: A longitudinal retrospective study involving 124 patients who underwent hip fracture surgery in 2021 was conducted. Sociodemographic, surgical, and nutritional data, including vitamin D, albumin, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, were collected. (3) Results: The average age of the sample was 89.1 years, with a postoperative 30-day-mortality rate of 8.1% and an average hospital stay of 10.4 days. Vitamin D deficiency was present in 79.7% of patients, and a high prevalence of malnutrition was indicated by low albumin and elevated BUN levels. Elevated BUN levels and low vitamin D levels were associated with higher mortality. (4) Conclusions: Adequate nutritional assessment in patients with hip fracture is vital for identifying the risks of complications and mortality. Understanding the current nutritional status and its associated complications will aid in developing strategies to improve health and reduce complications in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition in Applied Physiology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 971 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Sports Supplement Consumption of Elite Referees of the Spanish Professional Fotball League

by Antonio Jesús Sánchez-Oliver, Víctor Moreno-Pérez, Pablo Terrón-Manrique, Vicente Fernández-Ruiz, Iñaki Quintana-Milla, Javier Sánchez-Sánchez, Guillermo Rodríguez, Juan José Ramos-Álvarez, Raúl Domínguez and Álvaro López-Samanes

Nutrients 2024, 16(15), 2486; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16152486 - 31 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1989

Abstract

Background: Sports supplements (SSs) are widely used among team sport athletes; however, evidence supporting the use of SSs among football referees at the elite level is scarce. The aim of the present study was to analyze the consumption of SSs among referees with [...] Read more.

Background: Sports supplements (SSs) are widely used among team sport athletes; however, evidence supporting the use of SSs among football referees at the elite level is scarce. The aim of the present study was to analyze the consumption of SSs among referees with respect to their level of competition and referee type (main referees (MRs) vs. assistant referees (ARs)). Methods: A total of 106 football referees participated in this study, with 46.2% from the First Spanish Division and 53.8% from the Second Spanish Division, representing 84.13% of the total number of referees. Each participant completed a validated questionnaire about SS consumption, with the SSs classified according to the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) ABCD system: Group A has strong evidence for enhancing athlete health and performance, Group B shows potential benefits but needs more evidence, Group C has inconclusive evidence against use, and Group D includes prohibited substances. Results: A total of 84.0% of the MRs and ARs reported the consumption of at least one SS. Differences were found only in the consumption of medical supplements between division (p = 0.016) and type of referee (p = 0.041), though no significant differences were found among the remaining AIS SS categories (p > 0.05). Sport performance (49.6%), Internet (41.0%), and dietitian–nutritionists (31.7%) were the primary reason for SS consumption, purchase location, and source of information, respectively. The most frequently consumed SS were whey protein (45.3%), followed by creatine (33.0%), sport bars and sports drinks (28.3%), and caffeine (19.8%). Conclusions: MRs and ARs reported a high prevalence of dietary supplement (SS) consumption, with significant differences between division and referee type observed only in medical supplement consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition in Applied Physiology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1731 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Level of Physical Activity with Liver Steatosis in People Aged > 50 Years and with a BMI > 25 kg/m²: Association with Biochemical Markers

by Laura Cano-Lallave, Jaime Ruiz-Tovar, Lucia Martin-de-Bernardo, Malena Martinez-Oribe, Cristina Rodriguez-Obispo, Sara Carrascosa-Corrochano, Ana Martín-Nieto, Isabel Baeza, Marta Gonzalez-Ramos, Marta Benito and Isabel Olazabal

Nutrients 2024, 16(13), 1996; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16131996 - 23 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1759

Abstract

Background: The main objective of this study is to determine the accuracy of different biochemical markers of hepatic steatosis and to correlate liver steatosis with adherence to the Mediterranean diet and level of physical activity. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out, including [...] Read more.

Background: The main objective of this study is to determine the accuracy of different biochemical markers of hepatic steatosis and to correlate liver steatosis with adherence to the Mediterranean diet and level of physical activity. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out, including subjects over 50 years of age, with a BMI > 25 kg/m², but excluding any patient with documented hepatic pathology other than hepatic steatosis. Participants were divided into two groups: patients with hepatic steatosis diagnosed by ultrasound (SG) and a control group of individuals without hepatic steatosis (CG). The level of physical activity was recorded by the IPAQ-SF questionnaire and the adherence to the Mediterranean diet was recorded using the PREDIMED questionnaire. Biochemical markers analyzed included the Hepatic steatosis index (HSI), AST-to-Platelet ratio (APRI) and Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4). Results: A total of 116 patients were included, 71 belonging to the SG and 45 to the CG. A total of 58.6% of the patients showed low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, 35.4% moderate adherence and 6% high adherence. The median estimated physical activity was 495 METS, with most participants reporting light activity. In the SG, significantly higher HSI values were observed (p < 0.001). A cut-off point of a HSI of 40 was established, with a sensitivity of 73.2% and a specificity of 65.8%. Significantly higher FIB-4 values (p = 0.039) were also observed in the SG. A cut-off point of FIB-4 was set at 0.27, with a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 57.9%. Patients in the SG showed lower scores in the PREDIMED. Patients in the SG tended to show lower METS scores. However, the higher number of patients with intense activity in the CG group stands out (p = 0.008). Conclusions: The HSI and FIB-4 showed a significant correlation with liver steatosis. Hepatic steatosis is associated with low adherence to the Mediterranean diet and patients with hepatic steatosis tended to have lower METS scores. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition in Applied Physiology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 2408 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Six-Gram D-Aspartic Acid Supplementation on the Testosterone, Cortisol, and Hematological Responses of Male Boxers Subjected to 11 Days of Nocturnal Exposure to Normobaric Hypoxia

by Kamila Płoszczyca, Miłosz Czuba, Agnieszka Zakrzeska and Robert Gajda

Nutrients 2024, 16(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16010076 - 25 Dec 2023

Viewed by 8330

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of D-aspartic acid (DAA) supplementation during a simulated altitude protocol on the hormonal and hematological responses in athletes. We hypothesized that DAA supplementation would contribute to an increase in the luteinizing hormone (LH), [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of D-aspartic acid (DAA) supplementation during a simulated altitude protocol on the hormonal and hematological responses in athletes. We hypothesized that DAA supplementation would contribute to an increase in the luteinizing hormone (LH), free, and testosterone and a greater increase in hematological variables. Sixteen male boxers participated; they were randomly assigned to an experimental group (DAA) or a control group (C) and underwent 14 days of supplementation, 6 g/day of DAA. Both DAA and C participants were exposed to normobaric hypoxia (FiO₂ = 15.5%; 2500 m) for 10–12 h a day over a period of 11 days. The results showed that DAA had no significant effect on resting, LH, or the testosterone/cortisol ratio during the training camp. Hypoxic exposure significantly (p < 0.05) increased red blood cell and reticulocyte counts as well as hemoglobin and hematocrit concentrations in both groups, but DAA had no significant effect on these changes. In conclusion, we found that DAA supplementation at a dose of 6 g/day for 14 days does not affect the testosterone, cortisol, or hematological responses of athletes during. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition in Applied Physiology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

21 pages, 1555 KiB

Open AccessReview

Creatine Supplementation Beyond Athletics: Benefits of Different Types of Creatine for Women, Vegans, and Clinical Populations—A Narrative Review

by Jorge Gutiérrez-Hellín, Juan Del Coso, Arturo Franco-Andrés, José M. Gamonales, Mário C. Espada, Jaime González-García, Miguel López-Moreno and David Varillas-Delgado

Nutrients 2025, 17(1), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17010095 - 29 Dec 2024

Viewed by 15080

Abstract

Creatine monohydrate supplementation is widely used by athletes in high-intensity, power-based sports due to its ability to enhance short-term performance by increasing intramuscular phosphocreatine (PCr) stores, which aid in ATP resynthesis during intense muscle contractions. However, emerging evidence suggests that creatine monohydrate offers [...] Read more.

Creatine monohydrate supplementation is widely used by athletes in high-intensity, power-based sports due to its ability to enhance short-term performance by increasing intramuscular phosphocreatine (PCr) stores, which aid in ATP resynthesis during intense muscle contractions. However, emerging evidence suggests that creatine monohydrate offers benefits beyond athletic performance. This narrative review explores the literature supporting the advantages of creatine supplementation in women, vegans, and clinical populations. In women, who typically have lower baseline intramuscular creatine levels, supplementation may help alleviate fatigue-related symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle, particularly during the early follicular and luteal phases. For vegans and vegetarians, who often have reduced creatine stores due to the absence of creatine-rich animal products in their diet, supplementation can improve both physical and cognitive performance while supporting adherence to plant-based diets. Additionally, creatine supplementation holds potential for various clinical populations. It may mitigate muscle wasting in conditions such as sarcopenia and cachexia, support neuroprotection in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Huntington’s, improve exercise capacity in cardiovascular diseases, and enhance energy metabolism in chronic fatigue syndrome. Creatine may also aid recovery from traumatic brain injury by promoting brain energy metabolism and reducing neuronal damage. In conclusion, creatine monohydrate supplementation can enhance physical performance, cognitive function, and overall health in women, vegans, and clinical populations by addressing creatine deficiencies, improving energy metabolism, and supporting recovery from physical and neurological challenges. Most available evidence supports the effectiveness of creatine monohydrate, which should be considered the preferred form of creatine supplementation over other variants. Additionally, proper creatine dosing is essential to maximize benefits and minimize potential adverse effects that may arise from chronic ingestion of excessively high doses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition in Applied Physiology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

The Role of Nutrition in Applied Physiology

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (8 papers)

Editorial

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI