Effects of acute weight loss on serum mineral homeostasis in elite male judoka
Background: Acute weight loss practices among judoka, typically aimed at qualifying for a lower weight class to gain a competitive advantage, may pose significant health risks. Maintaining optimal serum mineral levels is critical for both physiological function and athletic performance. This stud...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MRE Press
2025-07-01
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| Series: | Journal of Men's Health |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://oss.jomh.org/files/article/20250730-592/pdf/JOMH2025013002.pdf |
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| Summary: | Background: Acute weight loss practices among judoka, typically aimed
at qualifying for a lower weight class to gain a competitive advantage, may pose
significant health risks. Maintaining optimal serum mineral levels is critical
for both physiological function and athletic performance. This study aimed to
examine the effect of acute weight loss on serum mineral concentrations in elite
male judoka. Methods: The study included 32 elite-level male judoka who
were participating in the Turkish Judo Championship and were selected through
convenience sampling. Among these athletes, 15 individuals who engaged in rapid
weight loss were assigned to experimental group, while the remaining 17 athletes
who did not undergo weight reduction were assigned to control group. Demographic
data, including age, height, and training experience, were collected using
standardized forms. Body weight and venous blood samples were obtained at two
time points: one week and one day prior to the competition. Weight, body mass
index (BMI), and serum concentrations of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium,
and chloride were analyzed. Paired Samples T-Test and Independent
Samples T-Test were utilized to assess within-group and between-group
differences, respectively. Results: In the experimental group, post-test
values demonstrated a statistically significant increase in serum sodium levels
(p < 0.05), along with notable decreases in magnesium and chloride
concentrations (p < 0.05). No significant changes were detected in the
other serum minerals within the experimental group or in any parameter among the
control group. Moreover, post-intervention sodium levels were found to be
significantly higher in the experimental group when compared to the control group
(p < 0.05). Conclusions: Acute weight loss results in
measurable alterations in specific serum mineral levels among elite male judoka,
emphasizing the potential health risks of rapid weight reduction strategies in
high-level competitive sports. These findings underscore the need for
evidence-based guidance on weight management practices among athletes. |
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| ISSN: | 1875-6867 1875-6859 |