Effects of red cabbage and red onion anthocyanin supplementation on lipid profiles in amateur soccer players

Abstract:

Anthocyanins are bioactive compounds widely found in fruits and vegetables and are recognized for their potential role in the regulation of lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health. While numerous studies have examined their effects in the general population, evidence regarding their impact on lipid profiles in physically active individuals remains limited. Athletes often exhibit distinct metabolic adaptations that may influence their response to dietary bioactive compounds, making it important to investigate the effects of anthocyanin-rich foods in this specific population.

This pilot, exploratory, placebo-controlled study aimed to investigate the influence of short-term dietary supplementation with anthocyanin-rich vegetables namely red cabbage and red onion on lipid profile parameters in healthy amateur soccer players. The study was designed to explore whether regular consumption of these foods could modulate key lipid markers, including low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, within a physically active cohort.

A total of fifteen male amateur soccer players were recruited and randomly allocated into three groups: red cabbage, red onion, and placebo. Over a 22-day intervention period, participants consumed their assigned supplement while maintaining their habitual diet and physical activity routines. Blood samples were collected before and after the intervention to assess lipid profile parameters using standard biochemical methods. Statistical analyses were conducted using paired comparisons and variance analysis techniques to evaluate potential changes in lipid markers across groups.

By focusing on anthocyanin-rich vegetables and an athletic population, this study contributes to the growing body of research on functional foods and their potential role in sports nutrition and cardiovascular health. The exploratory nature of the study also provides a methodological framework and preliminary insights that may inform future research with larger samples and longer intervention periods.

Keywords: Anthocyanins; red cabbage; red onion; amateur soccer players; lipid profile; functional foods; sports nutrition.

Biography:

Hamza Elrobrini is a PhD researcher specializing in food safety, quality management, and functional foods. He is a vocational training instructor in the agri-food industries and has professional experience in food control and regulatory inspection. His research interests focus on bioactive compounds, particularly anthocyanins, their stability, and their effects on lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health. He is also involved in training and curriculum development in food technology, quality assurance, and nutrition-related disciplines.