Effects On Hormone Release And Selected Compounds - Sports

[By Davids Jones] Aug 26, 2008 Likewise in its infancy stages, research on the effects of macronutrient manipulation on hormone release and other compounds (i.e., enzyme activity) has commenced in recent years. The surging interest in this area of investigation has primary implications on potential athletic performance enhancement and recovery, body composition improvement, and effects on substrate use during exercise and rest. For example, some studies have explored the effects of dietary manipulation on the hormones testosterone, growth hormone, and insulin, which promote strength and muscular increases. Thus, such research triggers particular interest for those involved in strength/power sports or who wish to increase strength and muscularity through resistance training. Other studies have examined the effect of macronutrient manipulation on such factors as fat loss and metabolic rate (which may be related to hormones and other compounds), with considerable implications for those intending to improve body composition. Again, although no definite conclusions can be made, initial research has certainly sparked additional interest in this realm of physique and athletic enhancement.

The goal of many athletes and exercise enthusiasts is to increase muscular strength and size; therefore, optimal conditions for recovery following training sessions are necessary. Optimal recovery is mandatory because heavy­resistance exercise damages certain muscle fibers that must subsequently undergo remodeling. Recovery, in fact, involves the function of many physiological processes that are influenced by the availability of specific hormones and nutrients. Together, hormones, nutrients, and other growth factors regulate this remodeling of skeletal muscle proteins.

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