Studying the Effects of Dietary Nitrate on Muscle Changes Caused by Leg Immobilization in Healthy Young Men

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how dietary nitrate supplementation might affect muscle loss and function caused by immobilization in young healthy men. This study focuses on muscle disuse, which leads to rapid decline in muscle size, strength, speed, power, and energy metabolism, contributing to reduced physical function. The study explores the role of nitric oxide NO bioavailability, which decreases during disuse and may contribute to mitochondrial and muscle changes. Currently, no effective drugs exist to prevent muscle wasting from disuse. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either nitrate-rich beetroot juice or nitrate-free beetroot juice placebo for 14 days while wearing a knee brace to immobilize the leg. The trial uses a triple-blind design to compare the effects of dietary nitrate on muscle contractile function and mitochondrial respiratory capacity during this immobilization period. During the study, participants will undergo assessments of muscle mitochondrial function, strength, speed, and power after 14 days. Researchers will monitor changes in muscle performance and metabolic function related to immobilization and nitrate supplementation. The study includes healthy men aged 18 to 44 years who meet physical activity criteria and excludes those with certain medical conditions or medications. The total participation period is 14 days of immobilization with dietary intervention and outcome measurements.

Effect of Dietary Nitrate on Immobilization-induced Changes in Skeletal Muscle in Young Healthy Men