Introduction:
Adolescent athletes need a gender-specific diet for health, development, and performance. Sports nutrition advice is scarce in rural Nigeria, and gender norms influence eating habits. WhatsApp is a cost-effective and scalable platform for individualized nutrition coaching due to smartphone penetration. WhatsApp-based nutrition coaching improved gender-specific eating habits and performance indicators in rural Nigerian adolescent athletes.

Methods:
A quasi-experimental pre–post study was conducted on 80 adolescent athletes (40 males, 40 girls; ages 14–19) from four rural secondary schools in Oyo State. Measuring instruments included nutrition knowledge (15-item WhatsApp quiz), dietary diversity (3-day food picture diaries assessed using the FAO dietary diversity tool), anthropometry (BMI for age), and performance measurements (20m shuttle run, 100m sprint, handgrip strength). Participants received daily instructions and engaging feedback over six weeks of gender-specific WhatsApp coaching. All baseline metrics were repeated post-intervention. Paired t-tests and ANCOVA were used for analysis, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results:

Nutrition knowledge significantly increased from 6.8 ± 2.1 to 10.9 ± 2.4 (p < 0.001). Females showed greater improvement in diet diversity scores (+1.9 vs. +1.4; p = 0.03), increasing from 4.2 ± 1.1 to 5.8 ± 1.3 (p < 0.001). Performance outcomes improved: VO₂ max increased by 2.3 ml/kg/min (p = 0.002), sprint times decreased by 0.6 seconds (p = 0.01), and handgrip strength increased by 3.1 kg (p = 0.004). Gender analysis showed that females improved in their eating habits while males improved in their sprint performance. The message response rate was 92.5%.

Conclusion:
WhatsApp-based nutrition coaching enhanced rural Nigerian adolescents' gender-specific diets and physical performance. The results demonstrate the feasibility, scalability, and importance of adding simple, culturally appropriate digital interventions into African school sports and nutrition programmes.

Introduction
Vitamin D is increasingly recognized for its roles in musculoskeletal and immune health, yet evidence on its functional impact in physically active versus sedentary populations remains limited.

Methods
We conducted a randomized trial in 47 healthy adults, stratified by physical activity (runners vs. non-runners) and supplementation status (2000 IU/day vitamin D via orodispersible films vs. no supplementation). Participants were assessed at baseline (October, T0), after 2 months of intervention (T1), and 3 months post-supplementation (T2). Outcomes included serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D₃] levels, leukocyte counts, maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max), maximal isometric force (MIF), and counter-movement jump (CMJ) performance. Diet, training load, solar irradiation, and ambient temperature were monitored longitudinally. An attempt was made to determine if gender influenced vitamin D levels.

Results
At T0, runners exhibited slightly insufficient but higher 25(OH)D₃ levels than non-runners, reflecting greater outdoor exposure. At T1, supplementation increased 25(OH)D₃ by 20.82% in runners and 28.78% in non-runners, whereas non-supplemented runners remained stable and non-supplemented non-runners decreased by 32.23%. At T2, all groups experienced significant declines, with non-supplemented non-runners approaching deficiency. Neutrophil counts fell in non-supplemented groups, while VO₂max and CMJ performance were unaffected; MIF showed modest improvement in supplemented subjects. Gender did not influence vitamin D level.

Conclusions
Two months of vitamin D supplementation effectively improved 25(OH)D₃ status and stabilized leukocyte counts in both runners and non-runners; however, discontinuation resulted in rapid declines. Despite correction of vitamin D insufficiency, no ergogenic benefits were observed in aerobic capacity or explosive power, and the modest gain in muscle strength warrants further investigation.

Introduction: Understanding sex-based differences in nutrient utilization is critical for optimizing sports nutrition. This study investigates the in vitro digestibility of bovine milk and oat-based milk alternatives, exploring the impact of sex on protein breakdown to inform gender-specific nutritional strategies.

Methods: A semi-dynamic in vitro digestion model was used to simulate male and female physiological conditions. Bovine milk and oat drink, along with their protein powder counterparts, were subjected to gastric and intestinal digestion. Proteolytic trajectories, peptide generation, and free amino acid (FAA) release were analyzed via LC-MS proteomic analyses and SDS-PAGE.

Results: Significant sex-based differences in protein clotting and breakdown were observed. Females exhibited higher efficiency in oat protein digestion, while males showed improved bovine milk protein digestion. Male gastric conditions liberated bioactive peptides with antimicrobial, DPP-IV inhibitory (dipeptidyl peptidase IV, involved in blood sugar regulation), and cholesterol-regulating activities from milk proteins. In females, gastric conditions led to the release of an osteoanabolic peptide, which is potentially beneficial given women's higher risk of osteoporosis (affecting ~20% of women >50 years). FAA analysis indicated that women produced more FAA from oats, especially essential amino acids such as leucine (important for muscle protein synthesis), while men yielded more from milk proteins.

Conclusion: Sex significantly influences protein digestibility, impacting bioactive peptide release and FAA bioaccessibility. These findings suggest that gender-specific nutritional strategies, tailoring protein sources to optimize digestibility and harness the benefits of sex-specific peptide release, could enhance athletic performance and overall health. This research underscores the importance of considering biological sex in the design of future food products and dietary recommendations.

Introduction.
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant and mitochondrial enzyme cofactor that may selectively protect DNA and lipids from exercise-induced oxidative stress (1). In athletes, this has the potential to support muscle recovery and reduce cellular stress associated with intensive training. The concept of “mitochondrial nutrition” highlights nutrients such as ALA that can decrease mitochondrial damage and enhance antioxidant defense (2). Despite its popularity, an important question arises: do all commercial ALA dietary supplements (DS) deliver the same level of quality and performance?

Methods.
We evaluated nine commercial ALA DS available on the Serbian market using European Pharmacopoeia tests for solid dosage forms, including disintegration and dissolution testing. This independent assessment aimed to verify whether these products meet the pharmaceutical quality standards expected for reliable performance.

Results.
One formulation failed the disintegration test (Eur. Ph. 2.9.1.), as it did not disintegrate within 30 minutes. Three formulations failed the dissolution criteria (Eur. Ph. 2.9.3. and 5.17.1.), indicating that their release characteristics may compromise bioavailability and, consequently, their expected effects.

Conclusions.
Our results demonstrate that the quality of ALA DS is inconsistent, raising important concerns for athletes, coaches, and sports nutritionists. Athletes and their support teams should prioritize certified, independently tested products to ensure efficacy, safety, and optimal recovery.

1. Fogarty MC, Devito G, Hughes CM, Burke G, Brown JC, Mceneny J, et al. Effects of α-lipoic Acid on mtDNA Damage after Isolated Muscle Contractions. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2013 Aug;45(8):1469–77.
2. Pagano G, Pallardó FV, Lyakhovich A, Tiano L, Fittipaldi MR, Toscanesi M, et al. Aging-Related Disorders and Mitochondrial Dysfunction: A Critical Review for Prospect Mitoprotective Strategies Based on Mitochondrial Nutrient Mixtures. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Sept 25;21(19):7060.

Background: Sarcopenic obesity, defined as the coexistence of excess adiposity and reduced muscle mass/function, is associated with impaired mobility, reduced quality of life, and increased metabolic risk. According to the updated EWGSOP2 guidelines, sarcopenia should be identified primarily through low muscle strength, confirmed by reduced muscle quantity or quality, and its coexistence with obesity further amplifies health risks. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a multidisciplinary residential program (MRP) on risk factors of sarcopenic obesity in adults with obesity. Identifying strategies for this condition is therefore a growing clinical priority. Methods: A total of 61 obese patients (36 women, 25 men; mean age 60.0 ± 13.5 years; BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² with metabolic comorbidities) completed a two-month MRP consisting of personalized nutritional counseling, structured physical activity, and psychological support. Anthropometric variables, body composition, and biochemical markers were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: Participation in the MRP resulted in significant improvements in body composition and metabolic outcomes. Body weight (-6.4 kg), fat mass (-3.9 kg), visceral adipose tissue (-314 g), BMI (-2.45 kg/m²), and waist and hip circumferences were all significantly reduced (p < 0.001). Muscle function, assessed with the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), significantly improved (+0.93 points, p < 0.001). Moreover, reductions were observed in fasting glycemia (-16.4 mg/dl), HbA1c (-0.81%), insulin (-2.77 mcU/ml), HOMA-IR, and lipid profile parameters: total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides. Although a modest decrease in lean mass was recorded (-0.8 kg), overall changes favored improved physical function. Patients lost weight and fat mass, with a slight loss of lean mass. They showed improved muscle function (SPPB) and metabolic profile (glucose, insulin, HbA1c, and lipids). Conclusions: These findings suggest that a structured, multidisciplinary residential approach can effectively improve body composition, metabolic health, and functional performance in obese patients at risk of sarcopenia, highlighting its value in clinical obesity management.

Introduction:
High inflammation levels and an increased tendinitis risk are key factors leading to performance decline, prolonged recovery, and recurrent injuries in athletes. The severity of these risks depends on each athlete’s genetic profile. Variants in genes encoding inflammatory markers (IL6, TNF, CRP) and connective tissue components (COL5A1, GDF5, MMP3) affect injury susceptibility. FADS1 and FADS2 variants involved in omega-3 metabolism influence endogenous EPA/DHA synthesis and play a critical role in inflammation control. Nutrigenetic approaches enable the design of training and nutrition strategies tailored to biological needs.

Methods:
Genetic markers related to inflammation, tendinitis risk, and omega-3 metabolism (FADS1, FADS2) were analyzed. Findings were interpreted using the relevant literature and athlete health guidelines to develop individualized anti-inflammatory nutrition and injury-prevention strategies.

Results:
Athletes with IL6 G/C and TNF A/G variants showed a higher likelihood of prolonged inflammation after intense training. COL5A1 TT and MMP3 GG genotypes, linked to tendon elasticity and resilience, were associated with slower recovery after microtrauma. FADS1 TT and/or risk genotypes in FADS2 reduced the conversion of plant-derived omega-3 fatty acids to active EPA/DHA, indicating lower bioavailability. This suggests that standard omega-3 intake may be insufficient for some athletes, requiring individualized supplementation.

Conclusion:
Genetic profiling shows that inflammation and injury risks vary between athletes. Nutrigenetic assessments allow for the application of omega-3-supported anti-inflammatory nutrition with personalized dosage, duration, and composition. Tailoring omega-3 supplementation to FADS1/FADS2 genotypes may improve recovery, lower injury risk, and support sustainable athletic performance.

Introduction:

Botanical nutrition is being progressively explored in sports science for its potential to enhance athletic performance and support recovery. Among various herbal supplements, Panax ginseng and Curcuma longa (turmeric) stand out due to their physiological and therapeutic properties. Ginseng is known for its adaptogenic effects, which may help improve endurance, reduce fatigue, and support stress resilience. Turmeric, rich in curcumin, is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities that can benefit post-exercise muscle recovery and reduce exercise-induced stress. This study investigates the effects of ginseng and turmeric, both separately and in combination, on physical performance and recovery in trained individuals.

Key Findings:

Ginseng is a performance enhancer that boosts stamina and energy levels, improves focus and reaction time, and is most commonly used in endurance and cognitive support formulas. Ginseng supplementation is associated with improvements in endurance and reduced fatigue during physical exertion.

Turmeric acts as a recovery agent by reducing inflammation and Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), supporting joint and muscle recovery, and combating oxidative stress after intense training. Turmeric helps alleviate muscle soreness and lowers markers of inflammation after intense exercise.

The combination of both botanicals may lead to the most significant benefits, enhancing physical performance, accelerating recovery, and reducing oxidative stress.

Conclusion:

Ginseng and turmeric offer valuable support for athletes, with ginseng contributing to improved stamina and turmeric aiding in recovery. When used together, these botanicals may have complementary effects, enhancing both performance and post-exercise healing. Integration of natural botanical supplements into sports nutrition strategies, while emphasizing the need for further research in competitive athletic populations to determine optimal usage and long-term benefits.

Sarcopenia is an age-related condition with a slow and prolonged decrease in muscular mass, strength, and function. As the population ages, the frequency of sarcopenia rises, and aggressive prevention methods and effective treatment options are in urgent need. Here, we explore the hypothesis that nutritional interventions can ameliorate skeletal muscle aging in mice affected by sarcopenia, and the aforementioned hypothesis was validated through histopathological characterization and behavioral experiments. The age-related sarcopenia model induced by intraperitoneal injection of D-galactose exhibited reduced muscle mass (Lean Mass, GAS index), muscular strength (Maximum Limb Muscle Strength), and muscular function (Exhaustion Time, Inverted Grid Time), along with increased fat content and smaller myofiber size compared to the control group. Treatments with lactoferrin and CoQ10, both individually and in combination, enhanced muscle indices and facilitated muscle tissue regeneration, with the combined treatment showing the most significant improvement. Research further showed that lactoferrin and CoQ10, whether administered alone or in combination, were discovered to restrain the progression of sarcopenia by inhibiting both protein metabolism and mitochondrial energy metabolism, and compared to groups treated with lactoferrin or CoQ10 alone, the combined treatment demonstrated varying degrees of improvement across all evaluated metrics, such as Lean Mass (2.273~5.365%), Fat Mass (-1.058~-0.359%), GAS index (0.259~0.335%), Maximum Limb Muscle Strength (6.83~53.498 g), Inverted Grid Time (563~859 s), and Exhaustion Time (386~468 s). Therefore, lactoferrin and CoQ10, either alone or in combination, were found to inhibit the progression of sarcopenia by influencing the number and cross-sectional area of muscle fibers and muscle protein synthesis. The combined intervention appeared to exert a more significant effect on energy metabolism.

Muscle atrophy occurs in various physio-pathological conditions, including severe muscle injury, disuse, hormone imbalances, cancer, sepsis, and aging. A common feature of these conditions is the presence of cellular oxidative damage and pro-inflammatory processes. Dexamethasone (DEXA) is a synthetic glucocorticoid that is widely used as an anti-inflammatory agent. However, chronic DEXA treatment can lead to side effects such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, and, ultimately, muscle atrophy.

There is ongoing research aimed at identifying tools to counteract muscle atrophy and improve the quality of life of affected individuals. Among the promising approaches, the use of plant-based extracts has garnered significant attention. In particular, Moringa oleifera leaf extracts (MOLE) have been shown to support muscle cells metabolism and mitigate the negative effects of oxidative stress.

In this study, we investigated the effects of MOLE on DEXA-induced muscle atrophy and the underlying mechanisms in C2C12 myotubes.

Exposure to 100 mM DEXA for 24 hours induced muscle atrophy, as evidenced by increased levels of the specific markers such as MuRF-1 and Atrogin-1 and reduced levels of myosin heavy chain (MHC).

MOLE (0.15 mg/mg dried powder) was administered either concomitantly or 24 hours before or after DEXA exposure.

MOLE treatment was effective in reducing atrophy markers and improving the status of C2C12 myotubes, as reflected by increased MHC levels and fiber size in all experimental conditions involving DEXA.

Interestingly, the most pronounced effects were obtained when MOLE was administered to cells that had already undergone DEXA treatment.

In conclusion, these findings suggest that MOLE can alleviate DEXA-induced muscle atrophy in C2C12 myotubes by reducing atrophic markers and restoring the proper myotube phenotype.

Introduction: The recently validated Guide Against Age Related Disease (GARD) dietary screener quantifies diet and behavior using Assembly Theory. It has shown strong correlations with known dietary patterns. However, its predictive utility in active populations remains untested. We propose a computer model that integrates GARD scores with a novel Safety and Reciprocity Quotient (SRQ)—a proxy for perceived life stress and environmental threats—to explain variability in weight loss and recovery under a consistent caloric deficit for patients trying to lose weight.

Methods: In a retrospective chart review, we plan to validate the model by evaluating patients enrolled in a diet and exercise program. Diet will be measured using the GARD screener (validated in Nutrients, 2025), and psychological safety will be estimated using the SRQ, derived from Adverse Childhood Event (ACE) scores, social determinants, and the Holmes–Rahe stress inventory. Our thermodynamic computer model treats the body as a heat engine with energy flows allocated first to basal metabolism, then to somatic activity (exercise), and then healing vs storage. High SRQ scores will bias energy flow to storage over healing and recovery.

Results: We hypothesize that patients with high GARD scores and low SRQ will exhibit persistent weight loss and exercise habits, while those with low GARD or high SRQ will exercise less frequently and show plateauing weight loss despite caloric restriction. We expect the combined GARD–SRQ model to outperform caloric balance models in predicting longitudinal weight changes and recovery.

Conclusions: This study aims to validate the Human Heat Engine, a predictor of metabolic resilience and weight trajectory combining dietary measurement with stress metrics. Our findings may support a shift toward personalized interventions in metabolic health and exercise recovery.