Journal of Kerman University of Medical Sciences

Effect of Watermelon Juice Compared to Carbohydrate Drinks on Rehydration and Anaerobic Performance in Active Male Adolescents

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Mohsen Mohammadnia Ahmadi 1
Mohammad Reza Gheybizadeh 1
Mohammad Yousefi 1
Aliyeh Daryabor 2

1 Department of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical education and Sport Sciences, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran

2 Physiotherapy Research Center, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

https://doi.org/10.34172/jkmu.2024.35
Abstract
Background: Considering the high amount of water in watermelon, this study aimed to investigate the effect of watermelon juice compared to carbohydrate drinks and water on rehydration and anaerobic performance.
Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, twelve active adolescents experienced weight loss of about 2% in three separate
sessions, one week apart, by running a treadmill exercise program including two sets of 30-minute aerobic activity separated by
a 10-minute rest. Then, they consumed one of the three drinks of water, carbohydrate drink, or watermelon juice at 125% of their
weight loss. Two hours after each session, they performed a 300-yard shuttle run test. Urine specific gravity (USG) and participants’ weight were measured three times: before and after the dehydration protocol and before the anaerobic performance.
Results: Data analysis showed no significant difference in USG (P=0.41) and the 300-yard shuttle run test (P=0.87) after consuming the three drinks. There was a significant difference (P=0.001) in weight gain after consuming the three drinks, with greater mean weight gain for watermelon juice and carbohydrate drinks compared to water.
Conclusion: The results indicated the same effect in carbohydrate drinks and watermelon juice on weight return, rehydration,
and subsequent anaerobic performance. However, because watermelon juice contains vitamins and minerals compared with carbohydrate drinks, it is suggested that athletes use this drink.

Keywords

Urinary specific gravity
Rehydration
Watermelon juice
300-yard shuttle run 
Subjects
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Journal of Kerman University of Medical Sciences
Volume 31, Issue 5
September and October 2024
Pages 226-232

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