The effects of nutritional supplementation throughout an endurance run on leucine kinetics during recovery

Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2007 Oct;17(5):456-67. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.17.5.456.

Abstract

This study determined the effect of nutritional supplementation throughout endurance exercise on whole-body leucine kinetics (leucine rate of appearance [Ra], oxidation [Ox], and nonoxidative leucine disposal [NOLD]) during recovery. Five trained men underwent a 2-h run at 65% VO(2max), during which a carbohydrate (CHO), mixed protein-carbohydrate (milk), or placebo (PLA) drink was consumed. Leucine kinetics were assessed during recovery using a primed, continuous infusion of 1-13C leucine. Leucine Ra and NOLD were lower for milk than for PLA. Ox was higher after milk-supplemented exercise than after CHO or PLA. Although consuming milk during the run affected whole-body leucine kinetics, the benefits of such a practice for athletes remain unclear. Additional studies are needed to determine whether protein supplementation during exercise can optimize protein utilization during recovery.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Animals
  • Carbon Isotopes
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Dietary Carbohydrates / metabolism
  • Dietary Carbohydrates / pharmacology*
  • Dietary Proteins / metabolism
  • Dietary Proteins / pharmacology*
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Energy Metabolism
  • Humans
  • Leucine / pharmacokinetics*
  • Male
  • Milk
  • Oxygen Consumption
  • Physical Endurance / physiology*

Substances

  • Carbon Isotopes
  • Dietary Carbohydrates
  • Dietary Proteins
  • Leucine