Effect of Nutritional Supplementation on Anthropometric Characteristics among Young Power Lifters: A Controlled Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Nutritional supplementation is widely practiced among athletes to enhance muscle development and performance. However, empirical evidence on its influence on anthropometric parameters among young athletes remains limited.

Objective: To investigate the effect of a commercial protein supplement, compared to a high-protein diet and a regular diet, on selected anthropometric measurements in young male power lifters.

Methods: Thirty male power lifters aged 18–20 years from Talwalkar’s Health Spa, Mumbai, were randomly assigned into three groups: (A) Normal Diet + Supplement (NSD), (B) High Protein–Fat Diet (HFP), and (C) Control (regular diet). All groups followed identical 12-week resistance training schedules. Measurements of Ponderal Index, Weight, Biacromial Breadth, Chest, Upper Arm, Thigh, and Calf Girths were taken pre- and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and ANCOVA at the 0.05 significance level.

Results: The NSD group exhibited the greatest gains in body weight (F = 19.48, p < .05), biacromial breadth (F = 8.36, p < .05), chest girth (F = 6.44, p < .05), thigh girth (F = 20.40, p < .05), and calf girth (F = 29.28, p < .05). No significant changes were observed in Crural Index, Upper Arm Length, or Forearm Length.

Conclusion: Combining a balanced diet with a commercial protein supplement significantly improves muscle girths and weight among young power lifters, demonstrating its potential as an effective nutritional strategy during strength training.

Keywords: Nutritional supplementation, Anthropometry, Power lifting, Protein intake, Muscle hypertrophy