Vol 13, Issue 2

High-Protein Diet Associated with Resistance Training Improves Performance and Decreases Adipose Index in Rats

February 15, 2020 - By 

Authors

Paula Caroline de Almeida, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Brazil
Thiago da Rosa Lima, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Brazil
Eudes Thiago Pereira Avila, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Brazil
Geovane José Tolazzi, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Brazil
Letícia Pereira Cavalcante, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Brazil
James W. Navalta, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Ramires Tibana, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Educação Física, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brasil.
Roberto Lopes de Souza, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Brazil
Neuber José Segri, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Brazil
Édila Cristina de Souza, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Brazil
Roberto Carlos Vieira Jr., Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Brazil
Fabrício Azevedo Voltarelli, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Brazil
International Journal of Exercise Science 13(2): 1366-1381, 2020.
DOI: 10.70252/AYOT8942

Abstract

The study tested the hypothesis that a high protein diet based on isolated whey protein (IWP) associated with strength training improves performance and reduces body fat without promoting health damage. Male Wistar rats, 45 days old, were divided into four groups (n = 8 / group): normoprotein sedentary (IWP 14%; NS); hyperprotein sedentary (IWP 35%; HS); normoprotein trained (IWP 14%; NT) and hyperprotein trained (IWP 35%; HT). All groups performed the maximum load test at the beginning and after the vertical ladder training protocol for 6 weeks (3x/week). The performance improved in HT when compared to other groups. There was no difference in the plasma levels of testosterone, IGF-1 and the hematological parameters remained normal. The relative weights of the kidneys were higher in the groups fed with high protein; the liver was higher in HT compared to NS and NT, and the heart was higher in HS compared to NS and NT. Concerning relative muscle weight, quadriceps, and gastrocnemius, HT showed higher value compared to NT. Diet containing 35% isolate whey protein associated with resistance training improved performance as well as increased muscles and organs weight of the animals, without damaging the tissues related to protein metabolism (confirmed by unchanged hematological parameters), which may minimize the risk of developing cardiometabolic disorders.

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