The effect of combined exercise and tea types on body composition and FGF21 protein levels in overweight and obese men.

Document Type : Research Paper I Open Access I Released under (CC BY-NC 4.0) license

Authors

1 Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

10.22049/jahssp.2025.30545.1741

Abstract

Obesity is a global health crisis associated with various metabolic complications. Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 (FGF21) is a key metabolic hormone involved in regulating energy expenditure and improving body composition. Meanwhile, bioactive compounds found in tea may influence energy-regulating pathways. Combined training (aerobic + resistance) in conjunction with tea consumption might have beneficial effects on metabolic health. This study aimed to investigate the effects of eight weeks of combined training (aerobic + resistance) alongside the consumption of three types of tea (white, green, and sour) on serum levels of FGF21 and body composition in overweight and obese men. Methods: In this semi-experimental study, 56 overweight and obese men were randomly assigned to four groups: combined training + green tea, combined training + white tea, combined training + sour tea, and combined training only. The intervention lasted eight weeks with three training sessions per week. The tea-consuming groups received 2 grams of their respective tea, three times daily, brewed and consumed two hours after each meal. Results: ANCOVA analysis (p < 0.05) revealed that combined training along with tea consumption, especially white tea, significantly increased FGF21 levels and decreased weight, BMI, and fat mass compared to the training-only group. No significant changes in lean body mass were observed in any group.Conclusion: The combination of combined training with tea consumption—particularly white tea—can enhance FGF21 levels and improve body composition in overweight and obese men. This combined intervention may serve as an effective approach for improving metabolic health and managing obesity.

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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 04 June 2025
  • Receive Date: 21 April 2025
  • Revise Date: 18 May 2025
  • Accept Date: 04 June 2025