Influences of weight loss on hematological parameters in male judokas

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of weight loss on hematological parameters in male judokas. Twenty Serbian male judokas were examined in the early morning of the first day (pre-values) and the last day (post-values) of a 10-day pre-competition training period. Of the 20 subjects, 10 needed to reduce weight (WR group), and the other 10 did not (control group). Blood samples were collected from all subjects on the first (initial measurement) and last (final measurement) days of the 10-day training program, at 07.00am. Venous blood samples were drawn from the cubital vein, and the red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), ferritin (Ferr) level, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), corpuscular volume (MCV), potassium (K), sodium (Na) and lipid profile were measured. At the initial measurement, no significant differences were noted in measured hematological parameters. Compared with basic data and control group, decrease in Hb, Hct, RBC, Ferr and MCHC was noted in WR group. Also, Hct and MCV statistically significantly decreased in control group. The lipid profile was unchanged in both groups, except for the triglycerides which decreased in WR group, after the final measurement. Also, K significantly decreased compared with basic data in WR group. The most obvious finding in the study was that red blood cell count is highly respondents to physical activity, especially in WR group. Weight loss before competition induces alteration in hematological parameters, which can lead to the decline of functional state and exercise ability of male judokas. Judokas are advised not to lose weight before a competition.