The effect of high-intensity interval training and L-arginine supplementation on the serum levels of adiponectin and lipid profile in overweight and obese young men

Abstract

Background Obesity is currently characterized as a worldwide health pandemic. High-intensity interval training and L-arginine intake are known to exert health benefits as improving obesity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 6 weeks of high-intensity interval training and L-arginine supplementation on serum levels of adiponectin and lipid profile in overweight and obese young men. Methods In this quasi-experimental study, 40 overweight and obese young men (age: 24.5 ± 6.5 years and body mass index of 29.4 ± 3.6 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to 4 equal groups including high-intensity interval training (3 sessions/week), L-arginine (6 g/day), high-intensity interval training along with L-arginine supplementation and placebo. Serum adiponectin level and lipid profile, body weight and fat percentage were measured 24 h before and 36 h after the 6 weeks of intervention. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and mixed ANOVA tests (P < 0.05). Results No significant changes were found in serum adiponectin levels, lipid profile, body mass index, and fat percentage after high-intensity interval training and/or L-arginine intake (P > 0.05). Conclusion It seems that no change in adiponectin levels and lipid profile in overweight and obese men after high-intensity interval training and L-arginine supplementation intake is due to the lack of weight loss and body fat percentage.