The Role Of Rapid Weight Loss In Metabolic Syndrome Among Former Elite Combat Sports Athletes

Rapid weight loss (RWL), a common strategy in combat sports, is often employed to compete in specific weight categories, providing a competitive advantage. However, the associated dietary restriction and dehydration practices may lead to adverse metabolic effects, potentially culminating in metabolic syndrome (MetS) post-sporting career. PURPOSE: This research aims to identify disparities in MetS parameters and prevalence between former athletes who underwent RWL and those who did not. METHODS: The study involved 150 participants, evenly split into two groups: 75 former combat sports athletes who engaged in RWL and 75 former athletes from sports where RWL was not practiced. MetS-related parameters were assessed, including waist circumference, HDL cholesterol, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), fasting glucose, and triglycerides. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference in MetS prevalence was observed between the two groups (39.5% vs. 16.2%). Additionally, statistically significant variations in systolic and diastolic BP (p = 0.001) were identified, along with a notable trend in triglycerides (p = 0.069). CONCLUSIONS: This study concludes that former elite martial arts athletes who incorporated RWL during their competitive phase may face an increased risk of metabolic alterations after their sporting career. Provincial Secretariat for Higher Education and Scientific Research, grant number 142-451-3098.