Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is considered an effective way in improving aerobic capacity and selected health parameters. Ashwagandha is an herb with possible health-promoting properties that may affect metabolism and performance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha supplementation (600 mg/day) during an 8-week HIIT on body composition, lipid profile and hormone levels related to energy homeostasis in healthy young men. METHODS: The study was randomised, double-blind and placebo-controlled (Placebo group, PL, n = 20; ashwagandha, A, n = 18). HIIT was conducted on a rowing ergometer (3 times per week, 5-7 series of 1.5 min at 85-95% of maximum power, with intervals of 1.5 min at 70 W). Body composition (BIA, Tanita TBF 300P), serum lipid profile (tChol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, TG) and serum levels of adiponectin, asprosin and irisin were analysed before (term 1) and after the8-week study (term 2). Both the lipid and hormonal profiles were measured in three time points: pre- and post-graded exercise test and after 24 h recovery period. RESULTS: Analysis showed no effect of training or supplementation on body composition and lipid profile (p > 0.05). In turn, the 8-week HIIT decreased resting levels of adiponectin and increased irisin levels post-exercise and after 24 h (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In young, healthy men, an 8-week HIIT programme significantly affects selected hormones related to energy metabolism of adipose (adiponectin) and muscle (irisin) tissues, but ashwagandha supplementation did not significantly affect any of the hormonal parameters analysed.