Rozenek, R., Ward, P., Long, S. & Garhammer, J. (2002). Effects of high-calorie supplements on body composition and muscular strength following resistance training. Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, 42, 340-347.

Healthy males were divided into three supplement groups: a carbohydrate/protein group (N = 26; CHO/PRO), a carbohydrate group (N = 25; CHO), and a no-supplement control group (N = 22). The supplements were in addition to normal diets. Ss underwent resistance training 4 days/week for eight weeks.

There was no difference in energy or nutrient consumption between the groups. Body mass and fat-free mass increased significantly in both CHO groups when compared to controls. Bench-press and lat-pull down strength (1 RM) improved in all groups.

Implication. High calorie CHO diets are effective in increasing body mass during strength training. The addition of extra protein did not seem to be important.

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