Variation of Salivary IgA During Weight Loss Period Before a Competition Among University Judo Players.

Background: This study aims to investigate the health condition of university judo athletes during a period of weight loss before a competition, using secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in saliva.

Methods: The subjects were 30 university judo athletes, who were divided into three groups: control group (n = 10), under 5% weight loss group (n = 10), and over 5% weight loss group (n = 10). The items evaluated were body weight measurements, salivary SIgA level and its secretion rates, incidences of symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, and mental state.