Study design (if review, criteria of inclusion for studies)
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial
Participants
60 adult CF patients, aged 18 or older.
Interventions
Participants were randomly assigned to receive either amino acid supplementation or a placebo for 4 weeks.
Outcome measures
Physical function tests and self-assessment questionnaires on quality of life, global health, and sleep status, as well as blood samples to measure pro-inflammatory cytokines, were performed at baseline and after the treatment period.
Main results
The amino acid supplementation group showed a significant improvement in self-perceived physical performance and health status. Interleukin-6 serum levels were significantly reduced in this group compared to those who received the placebo (p = 0.042).
Authors' conclusions
Amino acid supplementation in adult CF patients improves self-perception of health status and may reduce systemic inflammation, significantly decreasing serum levels of Interleukin-6. This suggests potential benefits for the overall well-being of CF patients and a reduction in their inflammatory status.