Effect of KA-EX Supplementation on Recovery Parameters in High-Level Young Football Players

Overview

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of KA-EX supplementation on recovery parameters in elite young football players. Athletes from the Udine Primavera team will be randomly assigned to receive either the KA-EX supplement or a sensory-matched placebo immediately following their training sessions for a period of two months. The researchers will monitor heart rate variability (HRV) and sleep quality using Garmin wearable devices, and assess changes in body composition using Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). The goal of the study is to determine if post-training KA-EX administration improves physiological recovery, sleep quality, and physical readiness in high-performance athletes during a competitive season.

Background and Rationale: Post-exercise recovery is a critical determinant of performance and adaptation in high-level football players. Insufficient recovery can lead to decreased physical readiness and increased risk of injury. KA-EX is a nutritional supplement containing a complex of amino acids, electrolytes, and functional sugars designed to support metabolic and physiological recovery. This study aims to investigate its efficacy in a real-world elite training environment. Study Objectives: The primary objective is to evaluate the effect of KA-EX supplementation on physiological recovery parameters (HRV). Secondary objectives include assessing the impact on sleep recovery indices, changes in body composition (via DEXA), and cellular health parameters (via BIA). Methodology and Design: This is an experimental, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Participants: 25 male players from the Udine Primavera team (Italy). Intervention: Participants will be randomly assigned to an experimental group (KA-EX) or a control group (placebo). The products will be identical in appearance, taste, and packaging to ensure blinding. Duration: The intervention will last for 2 months, typically following the pre-season period. Procedures: Baseline Assessment: Participants will undergo initial DEXA scans, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA 101), and anthropometric measurements. Monitoring with Garmin devices will be initiated. Intervention Phase: Supplements or placebos will be administered immediately after every training session. Recovery variables (HRV and sleep) will be continuously monitored using Garmin algorithms. Final Assessment: At the end of the 2-month period, DEXA, BIA, and anthropometric measurements will be repeated to evaluate longitudinal changes. Statistical Analysis: Within-group and between-group differences will be analyzed to compare the magnitude of change from baseline to post-intervention. Temporal evolution of recovery metrics throughout the 8-week period will also be assessed.