Effect of eight weeks combined training and Zataria multiflora supplement on the levels of IL-1β and insulin resistance in overweight and obese men

The anti-inflammatory effects of exercise training and zataria multiflora have been proven. In the present study, researcher investigated the effect of eight weeks combined exercise training and Zataria multiflora (Z. multiflora) supplement on the levels of IL-1β and insulin resistance in overweight and obese men.

The 40 overweight and obese men with average age of 27.73 ± 2.15 years old and average body mass index (BMI) 28.41 ± 1.75 kg/m2 were randomly divided into four groups including the placebo, Z. multiflora, combined training, and training + Z. multiflora. Combined exercise training program conducted for eight weeks and three sessions per week. Z. multiflora supplement was also consumed at 500 mg daily. Blood sampling was performed before and 48 hours after the eight weeks intervention. The levels of IL-1β and insulin were measured by ELISA method. Data were analyzed by analysis of covariance and Bonferroni post hoc test.

The levels of IL-1β in training and training + Z. multiflora groups significantly decreased compared to placebo and Z. multiflora groups (P < 0.001). In addition, significant decrease of insulin resistance in training group compared to placebo (P < 0.001) and Z. multiflora (P = 0.003) groups, and also in training + Z. multiflora group compared to placebo and Z. multiflora groups were observed (P < 0.001).

Combined training alone or in combination with Z. multiflora supplementation can exert anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, Z. multiflora supplementation cause the relative increase in exercise training effect for decrease in IL-1β and insulin resistance.