What is the impact of carbohydrate restricted diet on the immune system in athletes? A Critically Appraised Topic
Author ORCID
Abstract
The consumption of carbohydrates (CHO) is critical to reducing exercise-induced immune perturbations by attenuating the response of immune cells to exercise and providing primary energy source to circulating immune cells. Exercising in a carbohydrate-restricted state increases levels of circulating stress hormones and significant disruptions in various immune function markers. Literature was systematically searched for studies related to carbohydrate restriction and immune system function. The search yielded 16 results, of which 5 were included in our review after inclusion and exclusion criteria were met. All 5 reported an increase in cortisol levels. While two studies reported either no change or an increase in S-IgA, two other studies observed an increase in leukocyte count and elevated IL-6 following carbohydrate-restricted diet (CRD). Additionally, one study reported lower perceived general health and mood in participants following CRD. There is moderate evidence to support that carbohydrate restricted diet can impact the immune system in athletes. It is also important to note that manageable training intensities and adequate nutrition is critical to supporting the health of athletes.
Status
Graduate
Department
Applied Health Sciences and Wellness
College
College of Health Sciences and Professions
Campus
Athens
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Angela Hillman
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
What is the impact of carbohydrate restricted diet on the immune system in athletes? A Critically Appraised Topic
The consumption of carbohydrates (CHO) is critical to reducing exercise-induced immune perturbations by attenuating the response of immune cells to exercise and providing primary energy source to circulating immune cells. Exercising in a carbohydrate-restricted state increases levels of circulating stress hormones and significant disruptions in various immune function markers. Literature was systematically searched for studies related to carbohydrate restriction and immune system function. The search yielded 16 results, of which 5 were included in our review after inclusion and exclusion criteria were met. All 5 reported an increase in cortisol levels. While two studies reported either no change or an increase in S-IgA, two other studies observed an increase in leukocyte count and elevated IL-6 following carbohydrate-restricted diet (CRD). Additionally, one study reported lower perceived general health and mood in participants following CRD. There is moderate evidence to support that carbohydrate restricted diet can impact the immune system in athletes. It is also important to note that manageable training intensities and adequate nutrition is critical to supporting the health of athletes.