Effects of Resistance Training and HMB Supplementation on Responses of hs-CRP and Lipid Profiles to Strenuous Activity in Adult Male Rats

Various types of exercise cause damages at cellular levels in muscles. Muscle damages caused by exercise increase levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in blood. The aim of this study was to assess effects of resistance training and ta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyric acid (HMB) supplementation on responses of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and lipid profiles to strenuous activity in adult male rats.

In total, 32 healthy rat were randomly divided into four major groups of training, supplement, training-supplement and control groups. The experimental group carried out eccentric resistance for two weeks, five days a week. Supplementary groups received supplemental HMB daily for up to 450 mg/kg body weight per day using gavage. In general, one session of strenuous eccentric resistance activity (stepping down from ladder with a gradient of 80% by closing 120% 1RM at the back of the rat tails) was carried out 24 h before and after the intervention (supplementary and training). Data analysis was carried out using ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test at P ≤ 0.05.

Results showed that HMB supplementation and eccentric resistance training alone included no effects on hs-CRP, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C and HDL-C in adult male rats after strenuous activity (P < 0.05). However, combination of HMB supplementation and eccentric resistance training included a significant effect on these variables after a strenuous activity in adult male rats (P= 0.001).

Based on the results, combination of supplemental HMB and eccentric resistance training may help improve inflammatory statuses and lipid profiles.