Silk peptide intake increases fat oxidation at rest in exercised mice

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Silk peptides (SP) have shown potential in influencing body weight and fat accumulation.
• Understanding the metabolic effects of SP is crucial for optimizing athletic performance and body composition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of oral silk peptide administration on resting energy expenditure (REE) and substrate utilization.
• To evaluate the effects of SP on fat oxidation and body weight changes in mice undergoing endurance training.

Main Methods:

• Oral administration of silk peptides (800 mg/kg) to male ICR mice for two weeks.
• Assessment of resting energy expenditure and substrate utilization using an open circuit calorimetry system over 24 hours.
• Monitoring of body weight changes in both SP-treated and control groups.

Main Results:

• Mice treated with silk peptides exhibited significantly higher oxygen uptake compared to the control group (p<0.05).
• A lower respiratory exchange ratio was observed in the SP group, indicating increased fat utilization (p<0.01).
• Silk peptide administration led to a significant decrease in body weight compared to controls (p<0.05).

Conclusions:

• Oral intake of silk peptides enhances fat oxidation during rest in mice subjected to endurance training.
• Silk peptides show promise as a nutritional supplement for athletes, particularly those aiming for weight loss and muscle mass enhancement.
• SP supplementation may support athletes in achieving favorable body composition changes during training regimens.