Food intake sequence affects postprandial metabolic, hormonal, and appetite responses in healthy male football players: A randomised crossover trial.
Rita Giro, Cristina P Monteiro, Catarina B Oliveira et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized crossover trial examined the effects of food intake sequence on postprandial responses in 14 highly trained male football players. The carbohydrate-last meal pattern resulted in significantly lower glucose incremental area under the curve (iAUC) from 0 to 60 min (-54 mmol . L -1 × min, p < 0.001) compared to carbohydrate-first, while also increasing GIP and triglycerides, and altering appetite ratings.
Key findings
- Carbohydrate-last meal pattern led to a lower glucose iAUC from 0 to 60 min (-54 mmol . L -1 × min, p < 0.001).
- Higher GIP iAUC 0-60 min was observed with carbohydrate-last (1705 pg . mL -1 × min, p = 0.045).
- Participants reported greater hunger (5 mm, p = 0.007) and cravings for sweet and salty foods after carbohydrate-last.
- Lower ghrelin total area under the curve from 0 to 180 min (-14542 pg . mL -1 × min, p = 0.046) was noted with carbohydrate-last.
Why it matters
Understanding how food intake sequence affects metabolic and appetite responses in athletes can inform dietary strategies to optimize performance and recovery. This knowledge is crucial for tailoring nutrition plans that align with training and competition demands.