Body Composition and Body Weight Changes at Different Altitude Levels: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

In conclusion, BW and body composition changes occur during sojourns at different altitudes. The mechanisms leading to these changes are manifold and the magnitude of change is, in addition to the individual adaptive response to hypoxia, greatly influenced by the AL, the duration of the stay, the level of physical activity and the nutritional intake. This review identifies at least two contrasting motivations for hypoxia exposure; the experience of high altitude mountaineering and the “therapeutic” effect of hypoxia (e.g., weight loss programs). This analytical review of published data highlights the notion that adequate nutritional intake during high altitude expeditions should be assured in order to prevent negative energy balance. Furthermore, there is currently no convincing evidence for the use of hypoxic treatments for obesity that do not involve any lifestyle modification and, as such, presents a focus for further investigations. Author Contributions All authors listed have made a substantial, direct and intellectual contribution to the work, and approved it for publication. Conflict of Interest Statement The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. References Armellini, F., Zamboni, M., Robbi, R., Todesco, T., Bissoli, L., Mino, A., et al. (1997). The effects of high altitude trekking on body composition and resting meta...
Source: Frontiers in Physiology - Category: Physiology Source Type: research