Why was this study done? Multiple studies have shown that reducing weight has beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk factors. This study was designed to discover the effects of a diet and exercise routine on cardiovascular disease risk factors in moderately obese postmenopausal women. What did the study find? After 24 weeks of following a diet…
Why was this study done? The role of hormones (insulin, testosterone, growth hormone) in muscle building is fairly well established. What is less understood is the role of macronutrients (protein, carbohydrate, fats) and their impact on those hormones. This study was designed to help understand the importance of post-exercise supplementation for anabolic hormone production. Participants…
Why was this article written? There had been a concern raised about L-canavanine (an amino acid present in alfalfa seeds and sprouts) and vitamin E and their relationship to autoimmune disorders. The basis for these concerns appeared in a case study published in a journal. Alfalfa supplements, which are manufactured using mature alfalfa (and not…
Why was this study done? It can be difficult to measure the antioxidant ability of various substances. This study was designed to assess the accuracy and reproducibility of an antioxidant measurement system (MatTek EPI-100). What did the study find? The study found that the MatTek EPI-100 was a good assessment tool for determining antioxidant ability…
Why was this study done? Astronauts and athletes can experience a drop immune system function due to various stressors experienced during long flights. Dehydration is a common stressor to both athletes and astronauts. This study was designed to understand the role of proper hydration and its relationship to the immune system. What did the study…
Why was this study done? It has long been thought that thirst and dehydration sensations are regulated by plasma osmolality (concentration of electrolytes). This study was designed to help understand the mechanisms underlying thirst. What did the study find? That the act of drinking produces a neural response (through a hormone called norepinephrine) that alerts…
Why was this study done? Obesity and overweight are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This study was designed to discover the effects of a diet and exercise routine on cardiovascular disease risk factors in moderately obese women. What did the study find? While all groups in the study lost weight after 24 weeks, moderate caloric…
Why was this study done? Caloric restriction is well-known to reduce metabolic rate because of a loss of lean body mass. Discovering ways to reduce caloric intake while maintaining lean body mass is of utmost importance to persons who wish to lose and maintain a healthy weight. This study was designed to understand the role…
Why was this study done? There is a well-established relationship between fiber intake and cholesterol levels. Many of the studies performed, though, have been short-term in nature. This study was designed to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of long-term (six months) supplemental fiber. What did the study find? A mixture containing water-soluble dietary fiber (psyllium,…
Why was this study done? Dehydration is thought to play an important role in the management of fatigue for athletes. This study was designed to help understand the role of rehydration formulas, their relationship to plasma volume, and fatigue. What did the study find? The formula (AA) provided the larger pre-exercise volume, greater acid-buffering, and…