Obesity and hypertension are critical risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, often associated with poor lipid profiles and systemic inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) and Hibiscus sabdariffa supplementation on anthropometric parameters, lipid profiles, blood pressure and inflammatory marker (CRP) in overweight and obese men.
In a randomized controlled trial, 68 overweight and obese men were randomized into four groups: Hibiscus supplementation (SG), HIFT (TG), combined HIFT and Hibiscus supplementation (TSG) and control (CG). The 12-week intervention included thrice-weekly HIFT sessions for TG and TSG, while SG and TSG consumed 450 mg Hibiscus capsules daily. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, lipid profiles and CRP levels were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Sixty-two participants completed the study.
Results showed that the TG group exhibited significant reductions in weight, BMI, body fat percentage, TC, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, CRP (p < 0.05), HDL, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (p < 0.01). SG group independently led to significant reductions in CRP and TC (p < 0.05), SBP, DPB and triglycerides (p < 0.01). The combined intervention (TSG) produced the most substantial improvements across all parameters (p < 0.01).
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine the combined effects of HIFT and Hibiscus sabdariffa on cardiovascular risk factors in overweight and obese men. The findings highlight their synergistic benefits in improving lipid profiles, inflammation and blood pressure. These results offer a time-efficient strategy for cardiovascular risk reduction, warranting further research on long-term effects.
