Parastesh M, Mousavian M, Aria B. Effects of Concurrent Endurance and Resistance Training with Chicory and Common Fumitory Extract Consumption on Liver Enzyme Levels in Overweight Women. cmja 2025; 15 (1) :76-85
URL:
http://cmja.arakmu.ac.ir/article-1-1027-en.html
1- Associate Professor, Department of Sports Physiology, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Arak University, Arak, Iran & Research Institute of Applied Studies of Sports Sciences, Arak University, Arak, Iran , M-parastesh@araku.ac.ir
2- Master of Science, Department of Sport Physiology and Injury Group, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Arak University, Arak, Iran
3- Assistant Professor of Sports Sciences, Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran
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INTRODUCTION
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease and a major risk factor for conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Lifestyle changes, including physical activity and proper nutrition, can improve liver function. Additionally, herbal supplements, especially those with antioxidant properties like chicory and common fumitory extracts, may serve as effective complementary treatments. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of concurrent endurance and resistance training, combined with the consumption of chicory and common fumitory extracts, on liver enzyme levels (ALT, ALP, and AST) in overweight women.
METHODS
This quasi-experimental study used a pre-test and post-test design with a control group, conducted on 30 overweight women (BMI 25–30). Participants were randomly assigned to three groups: concurrent endurance and resistance training combined with chicory and common fumitory extract consumption; chicory and common fumitory extract consumption without exercise; and a control group with no intervention. The intervention lasted eight weeks, and training included three weekly sessions of combined exercises, while participants consumed a daily dose of chicory and common fumitory extracts. Liver enzyme levels were measured before and after the intervention.
RESULTS
Both the training-supplement combination and supplement-only interventions resulted in significant reductions in ALT and ALP levels. The combined intervention was more effective in reducing these enzymes than the supplement-only approach. The AST levels remained largely unchanged across all groups. The combination of exercise and supplements was significantly more effective than no intervention; however, there was no notable difference between the training-supplement group and the supplement-only group in terms of ALT and ALP reductions.
CONCLUSION
The combination of concurrent endurance and resistance training with the consumption of chicory and common fumitory extract presents an effective strategy for reducing liver enzyme levels (ALT and ALP) and improving liver health in overweight women. Although the effects on AST were not significant, this integrated approach shows promise in preventing and managing complications related to NAFLD.
Ethical Considerations
Compliance with ethical guidelines
All procedures were reviewed and approved by the Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences (Ethics Code: IR.Arakmu.rec.1397.172). The study adhered to the principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki, ensuring that the rights, safety, and well-being of participants were prioritized at all stages of the research process.
Funding
There is no funding support.
Authors' Contributions
The authors contributed equally to the conceptualization and writing of the article. All authors approved the content of the manuscript and agreed on all aspects of the work, including its accuracy and integrity.
Conflict of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest related to this study or its publication.
Acknowledgments
The authors would like to express their gratitude to all the participants for their cooperation and commitment throughout the study.
Type of Study:
Research |
Subject:
Medicinal Plants