The Effect of Exercise Intensity on Gastric Emptying Rate, Appetite and Gut Derived Hormone Responses after Consuming a Standardised Semi-Solid Meal in Healthy Males

Nutrients. 2018 Jun 19;10(6):787. doi: 10.3390/nu10060787.

Abstract

This study investigated the acute circulating gut hormone, appetite and gastric emptying rate responses to a semi-solid meal following exercise at different intensities. Twelve men completed three trials in a randomised-crossover design, consisting of continuous cycling at 70% V˙O2Peak (HIGH), 40% V˙O2Peak (LOW) or rest (CONTROL). Baseline samples were collected after an overnight fast before undertaking the 60 min exercise or rest period, followed by 30 min rest before consumption of a standardised semi-solid meal (~242 kcal). During the 2 h postprandial period, gastric emptying rate of the meal was examined using the 13C-breath test method, appetite was measured using visual analogue scales, and serum concentrations of acylated ghrelin, pancreatic polypeptide, peptide YY, glucagon-like peptide-1, insulin, glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol and non-esterified fatty acids were assessed. Subjective appetite response was not different between trials (p > 0.05). Half emptying time of the meal was 89 ± 13, 82 ± 8 and 94 ± 31 min on CONTROL, LOW and HIGH, respectively (p = 0.247). In healthy un-trained adult males, responses to exercise at intensities of 70% and 40% V˙O2Peak did not differ to a non-exercise control for measurements of subsequent gastric emptying, circulating gut hormone response or appetite. These results suggest that exercise intensity has little effect on post-exercise appetite response to a semi-solid meal.

Keywords: aerobic exercise; appetite; cycling; gastric emptying; ghrelin; gut hormones.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Appetite / physiology*
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Eating / physiology
  • Exercise / physiology*
  • Gastric Emptying / physiology*
  • Gastrointestinal Hormones / blood
  • Gastrointestinal Hormones / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Meals*
  • Postprandial Period
  • Time Factors
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Gastrointestinal Hormones