Changes in Matrix Metallo-proteinases 2,9 and Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase 1 to Synchronized Exercise Training and Celery, as an Herbal Supplement, in Overweight Women

Obesity increases production of the extracellular matrix (ECM) role in pathological cardiovascular damage. Regular exercise and the use of medicinal plants, particularly celery, in damage to be effective. The aim of this study is to investigate the changes in matrix metalloproteinases 2,9 (MMP 2,9) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) with synchronized exercise training and herbal supplementation with celery in overweight women. We randomly divided 28 overweight women into four groups: exercise, supplement, exercise–supplement, and control. Pilates training was performed for eight weeks, three weeks, for 60 minutes per session. Celery was administered at a dose of 3900 g per day in 3 capsules as a supplement. Blood sampling was performed before and 48 h after the last intervention. The analysis was performed by a paired t-test and one way analysis of variance (p≤0.05). After eight weeks, the levels of MMP-2, MMP-9 and body weight decreased and TIMP-1 increased in the exercise, supplement, and exercise–supplement groups (p<0.05). A significant difference was observed between the groups. The results showed that Pilates training and celery each, separately, had positive effects on MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in overweight women. However, the simultaneous effect of exercise and supplementation led to better efficiency.