PMID 31143111

Research
All papers

A Multi-Ingredient Nutritional Supplement in Combination With Resistance Exercise and High-Intensity Interval Training Improves Cognitive Function and Increases N-3 Index in Healthy Older Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Bell KE, Fang H, Snijders T, Allison DJ, Zulyniak MA, Chabowski A, Parise G, Phillips SM, Heisz JJ

Question

Does a multi-ingredient supplement combined with resistance exercise and HIIT improve cognition and omega-3 index in healthy older men?

Summary

Healthy older men received either a multi-ingredient supplement or placebo, then completed supervised resistance training plus once-weekly cycling HIIT while continuing the drink. Cognitive scores improved after the exercise phase, and omega-3 status rose in the supplement group, but the design does not isolate HIIT from resistance training or supplementation.

Methodology

  • Forty-nine healthy sedentary older men were randomized; 38 completed.
  • 49 participants.
  • Resistance machines and cycle ergometer.
  • Work intervals: HIIT: 60 seconds at workload eliciting about 90% HRmax.
  • Recovery: 60 seconds cycling at self-selected pace at 25 W.
  • Intensity: HIIT about 90% HRmax; resistance 80% 1RM.
  • 3 sessions/week total; HIIT once weekly.
  • 12 weeks exercise.
  • Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled parallel trial; secondary analysis
  • Cognition, Omega-3 index, and BDNF were tracked.

Outcomes

Cognition

MOCA, delayed recall, Go-NoGo reaction time, and composite cognition improved after the exercise phase.

MOCA p=0.01; delayed recall p=0.047; Go-NoGo reaction time p=0.002; composite p<0.001.

Improved

Omega-3 index

n-3 index and EPA+DHA increased in the supplement group.

Improved

BDNF

BDNF concentrations were reduced after the exercise phase, though baseline-to-week-19 change was not significant.

Time effect p=0.007; baseline-week19 p=0.127.

Safety concern

Insights

  • A once-weekly 10x60s cycling HIIT session can be combined with twice-weekly resistance training in screened older men.
  • Cognitive claims should be framed around combined exercise and nutrition rather than HIIT alone.

Limitations

  • Underpowered for between-group cognitive differences.
  • Combined RET, HIIT, and supplement design cannot isolate HIIT effects.
  • Healthy older men only.
  • No no-interaction control group.

Safety

  • No adverse events reported.