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Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology 4/2019

01-04-2019 | Original Article

Carbohydrate consumption and variable-intensity exercise responses in boys and men

Authors: Lisa M. Guth, Michael P. Rogowski, Justin P. Guilkey, Anthony D. Mahon

Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology | Issue 4/2019

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Abstract

Purpose

The effect of carbohydrate (CHO) supplementation on physiological and perceptual responses to steady-state exercise has been studied in children. However, little is known about these responses to variable-intensity exercise (VIE) and how these responses might differ from adults. This study examined the physiological and perceptual effects of CHO on VIE in boys and men.

Methods

Eight boys (11.1 ± 0.9 years) and 11 men (23.8 ± 2.1 years) consumed CHO or a placebo (PL) beverage before and throughout VIE (three 12-min cycling bouts with intensity varying every 20–30 s between 25, 50, 75, and 125% peak work rate). Pulmonary gas exchange was assessed during the second 12-min bout. RPE was assessed twice per bout.

Results

In CHO, blood glucose increased and then decreased more from pre-exercise to 12 min and was higher in this trial at the end of exercise in men versus boys. In boys, blood glucose in CHO was higher at 24 and 36 min of exercise than in PL. RER during the CHO trial was higher in both groups; the other physiological responses were unaffected by CHO. All RPE measures (whole body, legs and chest) increased over time, but were not different between groups or trials.

Conclusion

Blood glucose patterns during VIE were differentially affected by CHO in boys and men, but most physiological and perceptual responses to VIE were unaffected by CHO in either group. Knowledge of the underlying mechanisms of glucose regulation and effects on physical performance during this type of exercise in children is warranted.
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Metadata
Title
Carbohydrate consumption and variable-intensity exercise responses in boys and men
Authors
Lisa M. Guth
Michael P. Rogowski
Justin P. Guilkey
Anthony D. Mahon
Publication date
01-04-2019
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
European Journal of Applied Physiology / Issue 4/2019
Print ISSN: 1439-6319
Electronic ISSN: 1439-6327
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-019-04091-z

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