Effects of High Intensity Interval Training and Consumption of Matcha Green Tea on Malondialdehyde and Glutathione Peroxidase Levels in women

Increased production of free radicals occurs due to intense and unconventional physical activity. The present study aimed at evaluating the effect of six weeks of high intensity interval training and Matcha green tea on some cellular oxidants (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in women.

A quasi-experimental applied research was performed in 48 untrained women aged 25-35 years in Tehran, Iran. They were randomly divided into four groups, including supplement (n=12), exercise (n=12), supplement + exercise (n=12), and placebo (n=12). High intensity interval training was performed for six weeks at 85% - 95% maximum heart rate. The supplement groups consumed two capsules of Matcha tea (500 mg) orally daily. MDA and GPX measurements were done using 5mL of blood sampling from the brachial vein at pre-test and post-test stages. Data analysis was carried out in SPSS V23.

In current study, high intensity interval training had no significant effect on MDA and GPX indices in inactive women (P>0.05). But, consumption of Matcha tea alone and with exercise showed significant effects on reducing MDA and increasing GPX in women (P< 0.05).

It seems that consuming Matcha green tea alongside high intensity interval training in short term can have effects on oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity.