Effect of Aerobic Training and C. vulgaris Intake on Lipid Profile and Leptin in Obese Women

Abstract

Background: Regular physical activity can reduce the complications of obesity. Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris) is recognized as a rich source of health promotion. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of aerobic training and C. vulgaris intake on lipid profile and leptin in obese women. Methods: We randomly divided 32 obese women into control (C), aerobic training (AT), C. vulgaris (CV), and aerobic training plus C. vulgaris (AT+CV) groups. Interventions were performed for eight weeks. C. vulgaris was used at the dose of 1200 mg/day. The aerobic training included activities on a treadmill with 65% - 80% of maximum heart rate (MHR) (three sessions/week). Blood samples were taken before and after the interventions. Results: The body weight, body mass index (BMI), leptin, triglyceride, cholesterol, HDL-C, and LDL-C significantly improved in the AT and AT+CV groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the AT and AT+CV groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Aerobic training can improve the lipid profile and leptin in obese women by reducing weight, increasing oxygen uptake, and improving lipid oxidation. Nevertheless, the effect of C. vulgaris was not detected individually. However, the effect of training may be due to the modification of exercise-induced responses by C. vulgaris properties. Therefore, there is a need for further investigation of C. vulgaris physiological function in the field of sports medicine.