Effects of conditioning and diet on the exercise physiology in mid-distance trained sled dogs
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Abstract
Aerobic exercise can affect whole body physiology. Nutritional solutions, such as dietary tryptophan and soluble fiber may be able to assist in the dynamic changes the body undergoes during exercise. This thesis investigated the effects of two dietary interventions, either an increased tryptophan: large neutral amino acid ratio or increased soluble fiber on the heart rate, respiratory rate, and internal body temperature of sled dogs. Exercise led to decreased heart rates, respiratory rate appeared to be sensitive to the training duration, and body temperature tended to decrease during an exercise bout. Increasing the tryptophan: large neutral amino acid ratio of the diet had no effect on heart rate or respiratory rate, whereas increased soluble fiber content of the diet may have led to lower working and recovery body temperature. This research could be used to support exercise performance through both improvement of exercise training regimens and diet.