André Luiz de Seixas Soares, Adriana Machado-Lima, Guilherme Carlos Brech, Júlia Maria D'Andréa Greve, Joselma Rodrigues Dos Santos, Thiago Resende Inojossa, Marcelo Macedo Rogero, João Eduardo Nunes Salles, José Maria Santarem-Sobrinho, Catherine L Davis, Angelica Castilho Alonso
Journal: International journal of environmental research and public health 2023;20(10):5891
PMID: 37239618
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a common metabolic disease and the prevalence of T2DM is increasing among older adults. Resistance training is known to be an effective therapeutic strategy as it can positively influence the mechanisms of T2DM pathophysiology. Previous research suggests that whey protein supplementation can positively influence the different mechanisms of T2DM pathophysiology and improve muscle mass and glycaemic control. This triple-blinded, randomised controlled parallel-arm trial included twenty-eight male older adults to assess the effect of whey protein supplementation combined with resistance training for twelve weeks on glycaemic control, functional tasks, muscle strength, and body composition. The control group was supplemented with maltodextrin. All participants followed resistance training and were given nutritional guidance. Twelve weeks of resistance training improved muscle strength significantly. However, 20g whey protein supplementation did not improve performance in functional tasks, glycaemic control, or body composition in the test group of older adults with T2DM. Whey protein supplementation showed no significant synergetic effects when combined with resistance training in the test group. Due to the heterogeneity of the present study, further robust studies are warranted to investigate the effects of whey protein supplementation and resistance training. However, healthcare professionals can use the results of this study to understand the effect of resistance training alone and the safety profile of whey protein supplementation in older adults with T2DM.
OBJECTIVES
To evaluate the effect of whey protein (WP) supplementation associated with resistance training (RT) on glycemic control, functional tasks, muscle strength, and body composition in older adults living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Secondly, to evaluate the safety of the protocol for renal function.
METHODS
The population comprised twenty-six older men living with T2DM (68.5 ± 11.5 years old). The participants were randomly assigned to the Protein Group (PG) and the Control Group (CG). The handgrip test and evolution of exercise loads, according to the Omni Resistance Exercise Scale, evaluated muscle strength. Functional tasks were assessed by force platform in three different protocols: Sit-to-Stand, Step/Quick Turn, and Step Up/Over. Body composition was evaluated by bioimpedance and glycemic control and renal function were assessed by biochemical analyses. Both groups performed RT for 12 weeks, twice a week, prioritizing large muscle groups. Protein supplementation was 20 g of whey protein isolate and the CG was supplemented with an isocaloric drink, containing 20 g of maltodextrin.
RESULTS
There was a significant difference in muscle strength, according to the evolution of the exercise loads, but it was not confirmed in the handgrip test. However, there was no significant difference between the groups, regarding performance in functional tasks, glycemic control, or body composition. Renal function showed no alteration.
CONCLUSION
The intake of 20 g of WP in older male adults living with T2DM did not increase the effect of RT on muscle strength, functional tasks, and glycemic control. The intervention was proven safe regarding renal function.
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