Effect of Combined Moderate-Intensity Exercise and Thyme Supplementation on the Expression of miRNA-223 and miRNA-146 and Some Metabolic Variables in Women with Overweight/Obesity

Abstract

Background: In recent years, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased. MicroRNAs are currently regarded as valuable clinical tools for identifying and preventing major noncommunicable diseases. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effects of combined moderate-intensity exercise and thyme supplementation on the expression of miRNA-223 and miRNA-146, as well as selected metabolic variables, in women with overweight and obesity. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 26 participants with overweight/obesity aged 35 - 40 years were assigned to the combined exercise group (n = 8; body mass index [BMI], 27.6 kg/m2), resistance exercise group (n = 9; BMI, 27.8 kg/m2), or combined exercise plus thyme supplementation group (n = 9; BMI, 28.6 kg/m2). The exercise interventions were conducted for 8 weeks, with 3 sessions per week; each session lasted 70 minutes. Blood samples were collected before and after the intervention to assess miRNA levels, C-reactive protein, and lipid profiles. Results: All groups showed significant improvements in muscle strength and aerobic endurance and reductions in weight, BMI, and body fat percentage compared with baseline values (P < 0.01). Biochemical analysis showed decreases in miR-223 and miR-146 levels in the 3 exercise groups compared with baseline levels (P > 0.05). In addition, the combined exercise plus thyme group showed potential additive effects in reducing C-reactive protein levels compared with baseline values and with the other exercise interventions. Conclusions: With the exception of body fat percentage in the combined exercise group, all three exercise interventions showed comparable effectiveness in between-group comparisons of the measured variables. These findings underscore the importance of customized exercise programs and support further investigation of the influence of microRNAs on exercise adaptations.