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McCubbin AJ, Irwin CG, Costa RJS. Nourishing Physical Productivity and Performance On a Warming Planet - Challenges and Nutritional Strategies to Mitigate Exertional Heat Stress. Curr Nutr Rep 2024; 13:399-411. [PMID: 38995600 PMCID: PMC11327203 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-024-00554-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Climate change is predicted to increase the frequency and severity of exposure to hot environments. This can impair health, physical performance, and productivity for active individuals in occupational and athletic settings. This review summarizes current knowledge and recent advancements in nutritional strategies to minimize the impact of exertional-heat stress (EHS). RECENT FINDINGS: Hydration strategies limiting body mass loss to < 3% during EHS are performance-beneficial in weight-supported activities, although evidence regarding smaller fluid deficits (< 2% body mass loss) and weight-dependent activities is less clear due to a lack of well-designed studies with adequate blinding. Sodium replacement requirements during EHS depends on both sweat losses and the extent of fluid replacement, with quantified sodium replacement only necessary once fluid replacement > 60-80% of losses. Ice ingestion lowers core temperature and may improve thermal comfort and performance outcomes when consumed before, but less so during activity. Prevention and management of gastrointestinal disturbances during EHS should focus on high carbohydrate but low FODMAP availability before and during exercise, frequent provision of carbohydrate and/or protein during exercise, adequate hydration, and body temperature regulation. Evidence for these approaches is lacking in occupational settings. Acute kidney injury is a potential concern resulting from inadequate fluid replacement during and post-EHS, and emerging evidence suggests that repeated exposures may increase the risk of developing chronic kidney disease. Nutritional strategies can help regulate hydration, body temperature, and gastrointestinal status during EHS. Doing so minimizes the impact of EHS on health and safety and optimizes productivity and performance outcomes on a warming planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan J McCubbin
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Level 1, 264 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, Victoria, 3168, Australia.
| | - Christopher G Irwin
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Ricardo J S Costa
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Level 1, 264 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, Victoria, 3168, Australia
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Aragón-Vargas LF, Garzón-Mosquera JC, Montoya-Arroyo JA. Skimmed, Lactose-Free Milk Ingestion Postexercise: Rehydration Effectiveness and Gastrointestinal Disturbances Versus Water and a Sports Drink in Physically Active People. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2024; 34:258-266. [PMID: 38789098 DOI: 10.1123/ijsnem.2023-0253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Postexercise hydration is fundamental to replace fluid loss from sweat. This study evaluated rehydration and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms for each of three beverages: water (W), sports drink (SD), and skimmed, lactose-free milk (SLM) after moderate-intensity cycling in the heat. Sixteen college students completed three exercise sessions each to lose ≈2% of their body mass. They drank 150% of body mass loss of the drink assigned in randomized order; net fluid balance, diuresis, and GI symptoms were measured and followed up for 3 hr after completion of fluid intake. SLM showed higher fluid retention (∼69%) versus W (∼40%; p < .001); SD (∼56%) was not different from SLM or W (p > .05). Net fluid balance was higher for SLM (-0.26 kg) and SD (-0.42 kg) than W (-0.67 kg) after 3 hr (p < .001), resulting from a significantly lower diuresis with SLM. Reported GI disturbances were mild and showed no difference among drinks (p > .05) despite ingestion of W (1,992 ± 425 ml), SD (1,999 ± 429 ml), and SLM (1,993 ± 426 ml) in 90 min. In conclusion, SLM was more effective than W for postexercise rehydration, showing greater fluid retention for the 3-hr follow-up and presenting with low-intensity GI symptoms similar to those with W and SD. These results confirm that SLM is an effective option for hydration after exercise in the heat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis F Aragón-Vargas
- Human Movement Science Research Center (CIMOHU-UCR), University of Costa Rica (UCR), San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Julián C Garzón-Mosquera
- Human Movement Science Research Center (CIMOHU-UCR), University of Costa Rica (UCR), San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Johnny A Montoya-Arroyo
- Human Movement Science Research Center (CIMOHU-UCR), University of Costa Rica (UCR), San Jose, Costa Rica
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Scrivin R, Slater G, Mika A, Rauch C, Young P, Martinez I, Costa RJS. The impact of 48 h high carbohydrate diets with high and low FODMAP content on gastrointestinal status and symptoms in response to endurance exercise, and subsequent endurance performance. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2024; 49:773-791. [PMID: 38359412 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of a high carbohydrate diet, with varied fermentable oligo-, di-, and mono-saccharide and polyol (FODMAP) content, before endurance exercise on gastrointestinal integrity, motility, and symptoms; and subsequent exercise performance. Twelve endurance athletes were provided with a 48 h high carbohydrate (mean ± SD: 12.1 ± 1.8 g kg day-1) diet on two separate occasions, composed of high (54.8 ± 10.5 g day-1) and low FODMAP (3.0 ± 0.2 g day-1) content. Thereafter, participants completed a 2 h steady-state running exercise at 60% of V ˙ O 2 max (22.9 ± 1.2 °C, 46.4 ± 7.9% RH), followed by a 1 h distance performance test. Pre-exercise and every 20 min during steady-state exercise, 100 mL maltodextrin (10% w/v) solution was consumed. A 150 mL lactulose (20 g) solution was consumed 30 min into the distance performance test to determine orocecal transit time (OCTT) during exercise. Blood was collected pre- and post exercise to determine gastrointestinal integrity biomarkers (i.e., I-FABP, sCD14, and CRP). Breath hydrogen (H2) and gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS) were determined pre-exercise, every 15 min, during and throughout recovery. No differences in gastrointestinal integrity biomarkers, OCTT, or distance completed were observed between trials. Pre-exercise total-GIS (1.3 ± 2.9 vs. 4.3 ± 4.4), gut discomfort (9.9 ± 8.1 vs. 15.8 ± 9.0), and upper-GIS (2.8 ± 2.6 vs. 5.7 ± 4.8) during exercise were less severe on high carbohydrate low FODMAP (HC-LFOD) versus high carbohydrate high FODMAP (HC-HFOD) (p < 0.05). Gut discomfort (3.4 ± 4.4 vs. 0.2 ± 0.6) and total-GIS (4.9 ± 6.8 vs. 0.2 ± 0.6) were higher during recovery on HC-LFOD versus HC-HFOD (p < 0.05). The FODMAP content of a 48 h high carbohydrate diet does not impact gastrointestinal integrity or motility in response to endurance exercise. However, a high FODMAP content exacerbates GIS before and during exercise, but this does not impact performance outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Scrivin
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Education and Environment, Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, Tauranga, New Zealand
| | - Gary Slater
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - Alice Mika
- Faculty of Medicine Nursing & Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Christopher Rauch
- Faculty of Medicine Nursing & Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Pascale Young
- Faculty of Medicine Nursing & Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabel Martinez
- Faculty of Medicine Nursing & Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ricardo J S Costa
- Faculty of Medicine Nursing & Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Young P, Henningsen K, Snipe R, Gaskell S, Alcock R, Mika A, Rauch C, Costa RJS. Does Age Influence Gastrointestinal Status Responses to Exertional-heat Stress? Int J Sports Med 2024; 45:272-281. [PMID: 38198808 DOI: 10.1055/a-2195-3131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
This meta-data exploration aimed to determine the impact of exertional-heat stress (EHS) on gastrointestinal status of masters age and young adult endurance athletes. Sixteen MASTERS (mean: 44y) and twenty-one YOUNG (26y) recreational endurance athletes completed 2 h of running at 60% ˙V O2max in 35˚C ambient conditions. Blood samples were collected pre-, immediately and 1 h post-EHS, and analyzed for markers of exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome (EIGS). Thermo-physiological measures and gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS) were recorded every 10-20 min during EHS. Peak Δ pre- to post-EHS did not substantially differ (p>0.05) between MASTERS and YOUNG for intestinal epithelial injury [I-FABP: 1652pg/ml vs. 1524pg/ml, respectively], bacterial endotoxic translocation [sCD14: -0.09µg/mL vs. 0.84µg/mL, respectively], lipopolysaccharide-binding protein [LBP: 0.26µg/mL vs. 1.76µg/mL, respectively], and systemic inflammatory response profile (SIR-Profile: 92.0arb.unit vs. 154arb.unit, respectively). A significantly higher peak Δ pre- to post-EHS in endogenous endotoxin anti-body IgM (p=0.042), and pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β (p=0.038), was observed in YOUNG compared to MASTERS. No difference was observed between incidence (81% and 80%, respectively) and severity (summative accumulation: 21 and 30, respectively) of reported GIS during EHS between MASTERS and YOUNG. Pathophysiology of EIGS in response to EHS does not substantially differ with age progression, since masters and younger adult endurance athletes responded comparably.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascale Young
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kayla Henningsen
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rhiannon Snipe
- Centre for Sport Research, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephanie Gaskell
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Alice Mika
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christopher Rauch
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ricardo J S Costa
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
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Ryan T, Daly E, Ryan L. Exploring the Nutrition Strategies Employed by Ultra-Endurance Athletes to Alleviate Exercise-Induced Gastrointestinal Symptoms-A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:4330. [PMID: 37892406 PMCID: PMC10610183 DOI: 10.3390/nu15204330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Participation in ultra-endurance sports, particularly ultra-running, has increased over the previous three decades. These are accompanied by high energetic demands, which may be further exacerbated by extreme environmental conditions. Preparation is long-term, comprising of sufficient exercise management, supportive dietary habits, and nutritional intakes for optimal adaptations. Gastrointestinal symptoms are often cited as causing underperformance and incompletion of events. Though the majority do not pose serious long-term health risks, they may still arise. It has been suggested that the nutritional interventions employed by such athletes prior to, during, and after exercise have the potential to alter symptom incidence, severity, and duration. A summary of such interventions does not yet exist, making it difficult for relevant personnel to develop recommendations that simultaneously improve athletic performance by attenuating gastrointestinal symptoms. The aim of this research is to systematically review the literature investigating the effects of a nutrition intervention on ultra-endurance athletes exercise-induced gastrointestinal symptom incidence, severity, or duration. (2) Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted (PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Sports Discus) in January 2023 to investigate the effects of various nutrition interventions on ultra-endurance athletes' (regardless of irritable bowel syndrome diagnosis) exercise-induced gastrointestinal symptoms. Variations of key words such as "ultra-endurance", "gastrointestinal", and "nutrition" were searched. The risk of bias in each paper was assessed using the ADA quality criteria checklist. (3) Results: Of the seven eligible studies, one was a single field-based case study, while the majority employed a crossover intervention design. A total of n = 105 participants (n = 50 male; n = 55 female) were included in this review. Practicing a diet low in short-chain, poorly absorbed carbohydrates, known as fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs), as well as employing repetitive gut challenges of carbohydrates, remain the most promising of strategies for exercise-induced gastrointestinal symptom management. (4) Conclusion: Avoiding high-FODMAP foods and practicing repetitive gut challenges are promising methods to manage gastrointestinal symptoms. However, sample sizes are often small and lack supportive power calculations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lisa Ryan
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, School of Science and Computing, Atlantic Technological University, H91 T8NW Galway, Ireland; (T.R.); (E.D.)
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Gaskell SK, Henningsen K, Young P, Gill P, Muir J, Henry R, Costa RJS. The Impact of a 24-h Low and High Fermentable Oligo- Di- Mono-Saccharides and Polyol (FODMAP) Diet on Plasma Bacterial Profile in Response to Exertional-Heat Stress. Nutrients 2023; 15:3376. [PMID: 37571312 PMCID: PMC10420669 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Exertional-heat stress (EHS) compromises intestinal epithelial integrity, potentially leading to the translocation of pathogenic agents into circulation. This study aimed to explore the impact of EHS on the systemic circulatory bacterial profile and to determine the impact of a short-term low (LFOD) and high (HFOD) fermentable oligo- di- mono-saccharide and polyol dietary intervention before EHS on this profile. Using a double-blind randomized cross-over design, thirteen endurance runners (n = 8 males, n = 5 females), with a history of exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms (Ex-GIS), consumed a 24 h LFOD and HFOD before 2 h running at 60% V.O2max in 35.6 °C. Blood and fecal samples were collected pre-EHS to determine plasma microbial DNA concentration, and sample bacteria and short chain fatty acid (SCFA) profiles by fluorometer quantification, 16S rRNA amplicon gene sequencing, and gas chromatography, respectively. Blood samples were also collected post-EHS to determine changes in plasma bacteria. EHS increased plasma microbial DNA similarly in both FODMAP trials (0.019 ng·μL-1 to 0.082 ng·μL-1) (p < 0.01). Similar pre- to post-EHS increases in plasma Proteobacteria (+1.6%) and Firmicutes (+0.6%) phyla relative abundance were observed in both FODMAP trials. This included increases in several Proteobacteria genus (Delftia and Serratia) groups. LFOD presented higher fecal Firmicutes (74%) and lower Bacteroidota (10%) relative abundance pre-EHS, as a result of an increase in Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae family and respective genus groups, compared with HFOD (64% and 25%, respectively). Pre-EHS plasma total SCFA (p = 0.040) and acetate (p = 0.036) concentrations were higher for HFOD (188 and 178 μmol·L-1, respectively) vs. LFOD (163 and 153 μmol·L-1, respectively). Pre-EHS total fecal SCFA concentration (119 and 74 μmol·g-1; p < 0.001), including acetate (74 and 45 μmol·g-1; p = 0.001), butyrate (22 and 13 μmol·g-1; p = 0.002), and propionate (20 and 13 μmol·g-1; p = 0.011), were higher on HFOD vs LFOD, respectively. EHS causes the translocation of whole bacteria into systemic circulation and alterations to the plasma bacterial profile, but the FODMAP content of a 24 h diet beforehand does not alter this outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie K. Gaskell
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC 3168, Australia; (S.K.G.); (K.H.); (P.Y.)
| | - Kayla Henningsen
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC 3168, Australia; (S.K.G.); (K.H.); (P.Y.)
| | - Pascale Young
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC 3168, Australia; (S.K.G.); (K.H.); (P.Y.)
| | - Paul Gill
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; (P.G.); (J.M.)
| | - Jane Muir
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; (P.G.); (J.M.)
| | - Rebekah Henry
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia;
- Department of Civil Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Ricardo J. S. Costa
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC 3168, Australia; (S.K.G.); (K.H.); (P.Y.)
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Henningsen K, Mika A, Alcock R, Gaskell SK, Parr A, Rauch C, Russo I, Snipe RMJ, Costa RJS. The increase in core body temperature in response to exertional-heat stress can predict exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome. Temperature (Austin) 2023; 11:72-91. [PMID: 38577295 PMCID: PMC10989703 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2023.2213625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Utilizing metadata from existing exertional and exertional-heat stress studies, the study aimed to determine if the exercise-associated increase in core body temperature can predict the change in exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome (EIGS) biomarkers and exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms (Ex-GIS). Endurance-trained individuals completed 2 h of running exercise in temperate (21.2-30.0°C) to hot (35.0-37.2°C) ambient conditions (n = 132 trials). Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise to determine the change in gastrointestinal integrity biomarkers and systemic inflammatory cytokines. Physiological and thermoregulatory strain variables were assessed every 10-15 min during exercise. The strength of the linear relationship between maximal (M-Tre) and change (Δ Tre) in rectal temperature and EIGS variables was determined via Spearman's rank correlation coefficients. While the strength of prediction was determined via simple and multiple linear regression analyses dependent on screened EIGS and Ex-GIS confounding factors. Significant positive correlations between Tre maximum (M-Tre) and change (Δ Tre) with I-FABP (rs = 0.434, p < 0.001; and rs = 0.305, p < 0.001; respectively), sCD14 (rs = 0.358, p < 0.001; and rs = 0.362, p < 0.001), systemic inflammatory response profile (SIR-Profile) (p < 0.001), and total Ex-GIS (p < 0.05) were observed. M-Tre and Δ Tre significantly predicted (adjusted R2) magnitude of change in I-FABP (R2(2,123)=0.164, p < 0.001; and R2(2,119)=0.058, p = 0.011; respectively), sCD14 (R2(2,81)=0.249, p < 0.001; and R2(2,77)=0.214, p < 0.001), SIR-Profile (p < 0.001), and total Ex-GIS (p < 0.05). Strong to weak correlations were observed between M-Tre and Δ Tre with plasma concentrations of I-FABP, sCD14, SIR-Profile, and Ex-GIS in response to exercise. M-Tre and Δ Tre can predict the magnitude of these EIGS variables and Ex-GIS in response to exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla Henningsen
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alice Mika
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebekah Alcock
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephanie K. Gaskell
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexandra Parr
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christopher Rauch
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Isabela Russo
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rhiannon M. J. Snipe
- Centre for Sport Research, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
| | - Ricardo J. S. Costa
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
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Young P, Russo I, Gill P, Muir J, Henry R, Davidson Z, Costa RJS. Reliability of pathophysiological markers reflective of exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome (EIGS) in response to 2-h high-intensity interval exercise: A comprehensive methodological efficacy exploration. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1063335. [PMID: 36895638 PMCID: PMC9989174 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1063335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to determine the test-retest reliability of exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome (EIGS) biomarkers, and assess the association of pre-exercise short chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentration with these biomarkers in response to prolonged strenuous exercise. Thirty-four participants completed 2 h of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on two separate occasions with at least 5-days washout. Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise, and analysed for biomarkers associated with EIGS [i.e., cortisol, intestinal fatty-acid binding protein (I-FABP), sCD14, lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP), leukocyte counts, in-vitro neutrophil function, and systemic inflammatory cytokine profile]. Fecal samples were collected pre-exercise on both occasions. In plasma and fecal samples, bacterial DNA concentration was determined by fluorometer quantification, microbial taxonomy by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, and SCFA concentration by gas-chromatography. In response to exercise, 2 h of HIIT modestly perturbed biomarkers indicative of EIGS, including inducing bacteremia (i.e., quantity and diversity). Reliability analysis using comparative tests, Cohen's d, two-tailed correlation, and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of resting biomarkers presented good-to-excellent for IL-1ra (r = 0.710, ICC = 0.92), IL-10 (r = 0.665, ICC = 0.73), cortisol (r = 0.870, ICC = 0.87), and LBP (r = 0.813, ICC = 0.76); moderate for total (r = 0.839, ICC = 0.44) and per cell (r = 0.749, ICC = 0.54) bacterially-stimulated elastase release, IL-1β (r = 0.625, ICC = 0.64), TNF-α (r = 0.523, ICC = 0.56), I-FABP (r = 0.411, ICC = 0.21), and sCD14 (r = 0.409, ICC = 0.38), plus fecal bacterial α-diversity; and poor for leukocyte (r = 0.327, ICC = 0.33) and neutrophil (r = 0.352, ICC = 0.32) counts. In addition, a medium negative correlation was observed between plasma butyrate and I-FABP (r = -0.390). The current data suggest a suite of biomarkers should be used to determine the incidence and severity of EIGS. Moreover, determination of plasma and/or fecal SCFA may provide some insight into the mechanistic aspects of EIGS instigation and magnitude in response to exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascale Young
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabella Russo
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul Gill
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jane Muir
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebekah Henry
- Department of Civil Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Zoe Davidson
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
| | - Ricardo J S Costa
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
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Gaskell SK, Burgell R, Wiklendt L, Dinning PG, Costa RJS. Impact of exercise duration on gastrointestinal function and symptoms. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 134:160-171. [PMID: 36476157 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00393.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to determine the impact of exercise duration on gastrointestinal functional responses and gastrointestinal symptoms (GISs) in response to differing exercise durations. Endurance runners (n = 16) completed three trials on separate occasions, randomized to 1 h (1-H), 2 h (2-H), and 3 h (3-H) of running at 60% V̇o2max in temperate ambient temperature. Orocecal transit time (OCTT) was determined by lactulose challenge, with concomitant breath hydrogen (H2) determination. Gastric slow wave activity was recorded using cutaneous electrogastrography (cEGG) before and after exertion. GIS was determined using a modified visual analog scale (mVAS). OCTT response was classified as very slow on all trials (∼93-101 min) with no trial difference observed (P = 0.895). Bradygastria increased postexercise on all trials (means ± SD: 1-H: 10.9 ± 11.7%, 2-H: 6.2 ± 9.8%, and 3-H: 13.2 ± 21.4%; P < 0.05). A reduction in the normal gastric slow wave activity (2-4 cycles/min) was observed postexercise on 1-H only (-10.8 ± 17.6%; P = 0.039). GIS incidence and gut discomfort was higher on 2-H (81% and 12 counts) and 3-H (81% and 18 counts), compared with 1-H (69% and 6 counts) (P = 0.038 and P = 0.006, respectively). Severity of gut discomfort, total-GIS, upper-GIS, and lower-GIS increased during exercise on all trials (P < 0.05). Steady-state exercise in temperate ambient conditions for 1 h, 2 h, and 3 h instigates perturbations in gastric slow wave activity compared with rest and hampers OCTT, potentially explaining the incidence and severity on exercise-associated GIS.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Exercise stress per se appears to instigate perturbations to gastric myoelectrical activity, resulting in an increase in bradygastria frequency, inferring a reduction in gastric motility. The perturbations to gastrointestinal functional responses instigated by exercise per se, likely contribute to the high incidence and severity level of exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms. Cutaneous electrogastrography is not commonly used in exercise gastroenterology research, however, may be a useful aid in providing an overall depiction of gastrointestinal function. Particularly relating to gastrointestinal motility and concerning gastroparesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie K Gaskell
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca Burgell
- Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Prahan, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Gastroenterology, Alfred Health, Prahan, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lukasz Wiklendt
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and Public Health, The Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Phil G Dinning
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and Public Health, The Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia.,Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Ricardo J S Costa
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
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Rauch CE, Mika AS, McCubbin AJ, Huschtscha Z, Costa RJS. Effect of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics on gastrointestinal outcomes in healthy adults and active adults at rest and in response to exercise-A systematic literature review. Front Nutr 2022; 9:1003620. [PMID: 36570133 PMCID: PMC9768503 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1003620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction A systematic literature search was undertaken to assess the impact of pre-, pro-, and syn-biotic supplementation on measures of gastrointestinal status at rest and in response to acute exercise. Methods Six databases (Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cinahl, SportsDISCUS, Web of Science, and Scopus) were used. Included were human research studies in healthy sedentary adults, and healthy active adults, involving supplementation and control or placebo groups. Sedentary individuals with non-communicable disease risk or established gastrointestinal inflammatory or functional diseases/disorders were excluded. Results A total of n = 1,204 participants were included from n = 37 papers reported resting outcomes, and n = 13 reported exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome (EIGS) outcomes. No supplement improved gastrointestinal permeability or gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS), and systemic endotoxemia at rest. Only modest positive changes in inflammatory cytokine profiles were observed in n = 3/15 studies at rest. Prebiotic studies (n = 4/5) reported significantly increased resting fecal Bifidobacteria, but no consistent differences in other microbes. Probiotic studies (n = 4/9) increased the supplemented bacterial species-strain. Only arabinoxylan oligosaccharide supplementation increased total fecal short chain fatty acid (SCFA) and butyrate concentrations. In response to exercise, probiotics did not substantially influence epithelial injury and permeability, systemic endotoxin profile, or GIS. Two studies reported reduced systemic inflammatory cytokine responses to exercise. Probiotic supplementation did not substantially influence GIS during exercise. Discussion Synbiotic outcomes resembled probiotics, likely due to the minimal dose of prebiotic included. Methodological issues and high risk of bias were identified in several studies, using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. A major limitation in the majority of included studies was the lack of a comprehensive approach of well-validated biomarkers specific to gastrointestinal outcomes and many included studies featured small sample sizes. Prebiotic supplementation can influence gut microbial composition and SCFA concentration; whereas probiotics increase the supplemented species-strain, with minimal effect on SCFA, and no effect on any other gastrointestinal status marker at rest. Probiotic and synbiotic supplementation does not substantially reduce epithelial injury and permeability, systemic endotoxin and inflammatory cytokine profiles, or GIS in response to acute exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher E. Rauch
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
| | - Alice S. Mika
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
| | - Alan J. McCubbin
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
| | - Zoya Huschtscha
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Ricardo J. S. Costa
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia,*Correspondence: Ricardo J. S. Costa
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11
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McKenna Z, Houck J, Ducharme J, Li Z, Berkemeier Q, Fennel Z, Wells A, Mermier C, Deyhle M, Laitano O, Amorim F. The effect of prolonged interval and continuous exercise in the heat on circulatory markers of intestinal barrier integrity. Eur J Appl Physiol 2022; 122:2651-2659. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-05049-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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12
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Assessment of Exercise-Associated Gastrointestinal Perturbations in Research and Practical Settings: Methodological Concerns and Recommendations for Best Practice. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2022; 32:387-418. [PMID: 35963615 DOI: 10.1123/ijsnem.2022-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Strenuous exercise is synonymous with disturbing gastrointestinal integrity and function, subsequently prompting systemic immune responses and exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms, a condition established as "exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome." When exercise stress and aligned exacerbation factors (i.e., extrinsic and intrinsic) are of substantial magnitude, these exercise-associated gastrointestinal perturbations can cause performance decrements and health implications of clinical significance. This potentially explains the exponential growth in exploratory, mechanistic, and interventional research in exercise gastroenterology to understand, accurately measure and interpret, and prevent or attenuate the performance debilitating and health consequences of exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome. Considering the recent advancement in exercise gastroenterology research, it has been highlighted that published literature in the area is consistently affected by substantial experimental limitations that may affect the accuracy of translating study outcomes into practical application/s and/or design of future research. This perspective methodological review attempts to highlight these concerns and provides guidance to improve the validity, reliability, and robustness of the next generation of exercise gastroenterology research. These methodological concerns include participant screening and description, exertional and exertional heat stress load, dietary control, hydration status, food and fluid provisions, circadian variation, biological sex differences, comprehensive assessment of established markers of exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome, validity of gastrointestinal symptoms assessment tool, and data reporting and presentation. Standardized experimental procedures are needed for the accurate interpretation of research findings, avoiding misinterpreted (e.g., pathological relevance of response magnitude) and overstated conclusions (e.g., clinical and practical relevance of intervention research outcomes), which will support more accurate translation into safe practice guidelines.
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13
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King AJ, Etxebarria N, Ross ML, Garvican-Lewis L, Heikura IA, McKay AKA, Tee N, Forbes SF, Beard NA, Saunders PU, Sharma AP, Gaskell SK, Costa RJS, Burke LM. Short-Term Very High Carbohydrate Diet and Gut-Training Have Minor Effects on Gastrointestinal Status and Performance in Highly Trained Endurance Athletes. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14091929. [PMID: 35565896 PMCID: PMC9105618 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We implemented a multi-pronged strategy (MAX) involving chronic (2 weeks high carbohydrate [CHO] diet + gut-training) and acute (CHO loading + 90 g·h−1 CHO during exercise) strategies to promote endogenous and exogenous CHO availability, compared with strategies reflecting lower ranges of current guidelines (CON) in two groups of athletes. Nineteen elite male race walkers (MAX: 9; CON:10) undertook a 26 km race-walking session before and after the respective interventions to investigate gastrointestinal function (absorption capacity), integrity (epithelial injury), and symptoms (GIS). We observed considerable individual variability in responses, resulting in a statistically significant (p < 0.001) yet likely clinically insignificant increase (Δ 736 pg·mL−1) in I-FABP after exercise across all trials, with no significant differences in breath H2 across exercise (p = 0.970). MAX was associated with increased GIS in the second half of the exercise, especially in upper GIS (p < 0.01). Eighteen highly trained male and female distance runners (MAX: 10; CON: 8) then completed a 35 km run (28 km steady-state + 7 km time-trial) supported by either a slightly modified MAX or CON strategy. Inter-individual variability was observed, without major differences in epithelial cell intestinal fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP) or GIS, due to exercise, trial, or group, despite the 3-fold increase in exercise CHO intake in MAX post-intervention. The tight-junction (claudin-3) response decreased in both groups from pre- to post-intervention. Groups achieved a similar performance improvement from pre- to post-intervention (CON = 39 s [95 CI 15−63 s]; MAX = 36 s [13−59 s]; p = 0.002). Although this suggests that further increases in CHO availability above current guidelines do not confer additional advantages, limitations in our study execution (e.g., confounding loss of BM in several individuals despite a live-in training camp environment and significant increases in aerobic capacity due to intensified training) may have masked small differences. Therefore, athletes should meet the minimum CHO guidelines for training and competition goals, noting that, with practice, increased CHO intake can be tolerated, and may contribute to performance outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy J. King
- Exercise & Nutrition Research Program, The Mary Mackillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia; (M.L.R.); (L.G.-L.); (I.A.H.); (A.K.A.M.); (L.M.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Naroa Etxebarria
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia;
| | - Megan L. Ross
- Exercise & Nutrition Research Program, The Mary Mackillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia; (M.L.R.); (L.G.-L.); (I.A.H.); (A.K.A.M.); (L.M.B.)
- Australian Institute of Sport, Leverrier Street, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia; (N.T.); (P.U.S.)
| | - Laura Garvican-Lewis
- Exercise & Nutrition Research Program, The Mary Mackillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia; (M.L.R.); (L.G.-L.); (I.A.H.); (A.K.A.M.); (L.M.B.)
- Australian Institute of Sport, Leverrier Street, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia; (N.T.); (P.U.S.)
| | - Ida A. Heikura
- Exercise & Nutrition Research Program, The Mary Mackillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia; (M.L.R.); (L.G.-L.); (I.A.H.); (A.K.A.M.); (L.M.B.)
- Australian Institute of Sport, Leverrier Street, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia; (N.T.); (P.U.S.)
| | - Alannah K. A. McKay
- Exercise & Nutrition Research Program, The Mary Mackillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia; (M.L.R.); (L.G.-L.); (I.A.H.); (A.K.A.M.); (L.M.B.)
| | - Nicolin Tee
- Australian Institute of Sport, Leverrier Street, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia; (N.T.); (P.U.S.)
| | - Sara F. Forbes
- UniSA Online, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia;
| | - Nicole A. Beard
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia;
| | - Philo U. Saunders
- Australian Institute of Sport, Leverrier Street, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia; (N.T.); (P.U.S.)
| | - Avish P. Sharma
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia;
| | - Stephanie K. Gaskell
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC 3800, Australia; (S.K.G.); (R.J.S.C.)
| | - Ricardo J. S. Costa
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC 3800, Australia; (S.K.G.); (R.J.S.C.)
| | - Louise M. Burke
- Exercise & Nutrition Research Program, The Mary Mackillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia; (M.L.R.); (L.G.-L.); (I.A.H.); (A.K.A.M.); (L.M.B.)
- Australian Institute of Sport, Leverrier Street, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia; (N.T.); (P.U.S.)
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Young P, Rauch C, Russo I, Gaskell S, Davidson Z, Costa RJ. Plasma endogenous endotoxin core antibody response to exercise in endurance athletes. Int J Sports Med 2022; 43:1023-1032. [PMID: 35426092 PMCID: PMC9622302 DOI: 10.1055/a-1827-3124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the impact of laboratory-controlled exertional and
exertional-heat stress on concentrations of plasma endogenous endotoxin core
antibody (EndoCAb). Forty-four (males
n=
26 and females
n=
18) endurance trained (
V̇ O2max
56.8min/kg/min) participants completed either: P1–2h
high intensity interval running in 23°C ambient temperature
(T
amb
), P2–2h running at 60% V̇
O
2max
in 35°C T
amb
, or P3–3h running
at 60% V̇ O
2max
in 23°C T
amb
.
Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise to determine plasma IgM,
IgA, and IgG concentrations. Overall resting pre-exercise levels for plasma Ig
were 173MMU/ml, 37AMU/ml, and 79GMU/ml, respectively.
Plasma IgM concentration did not substantially change pre- to post-exercise in
all protocols, and the magnitude of pre- to post-exercise change for IgM was not
different between protocols (p=0.135). Plasma IgA and IgG increased pre-
to post-exercise in P2 only (p=0.017 and p=0.016, respectively),
but remained within normative range (35–250MU/ml). P2 resulted
in greater disturbances to plasma IgA (p=0.058) and IgG
(p=0.037), compared with P1 and P3. No substantial differences in
pre-exercise and exercise-associated change was observed for EndoCAb between
biological sexes. Exertional and exertional-heat stress resulted in modest
disturbances to systemic EndoCAb responses, suggesting EndoCAb biomarkers
presents a low sensitivity response to controlled-laboratory experimental
designs within exercise gastroenterology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascale Young
- Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Clayton, Australia
| | - Christopher Rauch
- Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Clayton, Australia
| | - Isabella Russo
- Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Clayton, Australia
| | - Stephanie Gaskell
- Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Clayton, Australia
| | - Zoe Davidson
- Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Clayton, Australia
| | - Ricardo J.S. Costa
- Nutrition Dietetics & Food, Monash University Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Clayton, Australia
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Anthocyanin-Rich Blackcurrant Extract Preserves Gastrointestinal Barrier Permeability and Reduces Enterocyte Damage but Has No Effect on Microbial Translocation and Inflammation After Exertional Heat Stress. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2022; 32:265-274. [PMID: 35287112 DOI: 10.1123/ijsnem.2021-0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of 7 days of 600 mg/day anthocyanin-rich blackcurrant extract intake on small intestinal permeability, enterocyte damage, microbial translocation, and inflammation following exertional heat stress. Twelve recreationally active men (maximal aerobic capacity = 55.6 ± 6.0 ml·kg-1·min-1) ran (70% VO2max) for 60 min in an environmental chamber (34 °C, 40% relative humidity) on two occasions (placebo/blackcurrant, randomized double-blind crossover). Permeability was assessed from a 4-hr urinary excretion of lactulose and rhamnose and expressed as a ratio of lactulose/rhamnose. Venous blood samples were taken at rest and 20, 60, and 240 min after exercise to measure enterocyte damage (intestinal fatty acid-binding protein); microbial translocation (soluble CD14, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein); and interleukins 6, interleukins 10, and interleukins 1 receptor antagonist. Exercise increased rectal temperature (by ∼2.8 °C) and heart rate (by ∼123 beats/min) in each condition. Blackcurrant supplementation led to a ∼12% reduction in lactulose/rhamnose ratio (p < .0034) and enterocyte damage (∼40% reduction in intestinal fatty acid-binding protein area under the curve; p < .0001) relative to placebo. No between-condition differences were observed immediately after exercise for lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (mean, 95% confidence interval [CI]; +80%, 95% CI [+61%, +99%]); soluble CD14 (+37%, 95% CI [+22%, +51%]); interleukins 6 (+494%, 95% CI [+394%, +690%]); interleukins 10 (+288%, 95% CI [+105%, +470%]); or interleukins 1 receptor antagonist (+47%, 95% CI [+13%, +80%]; all time main effects). No between-condition differences for these markers were observed after 60 or 240 min of recovery. Blackcurrant extract preserves the GI barrier; however, at subclinical levels, this had no effect on microbial translocation and downstream inflammatory processes.
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16
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Gaskell SK, Rauch CE, Costa RJS. Gastrointestinal Assessment and Therapeutic Intervention for the Management of Exercise-Associated Gastrointestinal Symptoms: A Case Series Translational and Professional Practice Approach. Front Physiol 2021; 12:719142. [PMID: 34557109 PMCID: PMC8452991 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.719142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
This translational research case series describes the implementation of a gastrointestinal assessment protocol during exercise (GastroAxEx) to inform individualised therapeutic intervention of endurance athletes affected by exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome (EIGS) and associated gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS). A four-phase approach was applied. Phase 1: Clinical assessment and exploring background history of exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms. Phase 2: Individual tailored GastroAxEx laboratory simulation designed to mirror exercise stress, highlighted in phase 1, that promotes EIGS and GIS during exercise. Phase 3: Individually programmed therapeutic intervention, based on the outcomes of Phase 2. Phase 4: Monitoring and readjustment of intervention based on outcomes from field testing under training and race conditions. Nine endurance athletes presenting with EIGS, and two control athletes not presenting with EIGS, completed Phase 2. Two athletes experienced significant thermoregulatory strain (peak core temperature attained > 40°C) during the GastroAxEx. Plasma cortisol increased substantially pre- to post-exercise in n = 6/7 (Δ > 500 nmol/L). Plasma I-FABP concentration increased substantially pre- to post-exercise in n = 2/8 (Δ > 1,000 pg/ml). No substantial change was observed in pre- to post-exercise for systemic endotoxin and inflammatory profiles in all athletes. Breath H2 responses showed that orocecal transit time (OCTT) was delayed in n = 5/9 (90-150 min post-exercise) athletes, with the remaining athletes (n = 4/9) showing no H2 turning point by 180 min post-exercise. Severe GIS during exercise was experienced in n = 5/9 athletes, of which n = 2/9 had to dramatically reduce work output or cease exercise. Based on each athlete's identified proposed causal factors of EIGS and GIS during exercise (i.e., n = 9/9 neuroendocrine-gastrointestinal pathway of EIGS), an individualised gastrointestinal therapeutic intervention was programmed and advised, adjusted from a standard EIGS prevention and management template that included established strategies with evidence of attenuating EIGS primary causal pathways, exacerbation factors, and GIS during exercise. All participants reported qualitative data on their progress, which included their previously presenting GIS during exercise, such as nausea and vomiting, either being eliminated or diminished resulting in work output improving (i.e., completing competition and/or not slowing down during training or competition as a result of GIS during exercise). These outcomes suggest GIS during exercise in endurance athletes are predominantly related to gastrointestinal functional and feeding tolerance issues, and not necessarily gastrointestinal integrity and/or systemic issues. GastroAxEx allows for informed identification of potential causal pathway(s) and exacerbation factor(s) of EIGS and GIS during exercise at an individual level, providing a valuable informed individualised therapeutic intervention approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ricardo J. S. Costa
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
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