Are the consensus screening criteria for a positive 12-lead ECG valid in competitive professional football (soccer) players? A genetic analysis and magnetic resonance imaging correlations

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) is a significant burden to individuals and society. Diet could potentially improve blood pressure and other metabolic abnormalities secondary to enhanced insulin sensitivity. We evaluated the effects of the Paleo-diet– composed of meats, fruits, vegetables and nuts and excluding high fat dairy products and refined grains –compared to a standard diet based on American Diabetes Association (ADA) nutrition guidelines (including low fat dairy products and grains) on cardiovascular and metabolic parameters in T2D subjects. Sixteen T2D patients controlled on diet or low dose metformin were randomized to either a calorically neutral Paleo-diet or an ADA diet. After "ramp up" diets for 1 week, patients remained on either diet for 14 days. Primary endpoints included mean arterial pressure (MAP), vascular reactivity assessed by measuring flow mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery, glycemic control (fructosamine and HbA1c levels), and insulin sensitivity (euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp). 24 hr urine electrolyte collections were performed to measure compliance. Caloric intake was adjusted to prevent weight loss. Paired t-tests were performed and data reported as mean ± SD. After 21 days, subjects on the Paleo diet had greater improvements in MAP, FMD, glucose and lipid profiles compared to the ADA diet. In conclusion, a paleo-diet seems to be superior to an ADA diet in T2D patients in improving cardiovascular and metabolic function.