Beneficial physiological effects with blackcurrant intake in endurance athletes

Willems, M. E. T., Myers, S. D., Gault, M. L. and Cook, M. D. (2015) Beneficial physiological effects with blackcurrant intake in endurance athletes. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 25 (4). pp. 367-374. ISSN 1543-2742

[thumbnail of Accepted author manuscript version reprinted, by permission, from Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 2015, https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.2014-0233. © Human Kinetics, Inc.] Text (Accepted author manuscript version reprinted, by permission, from Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 2015, https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.2014-0233. © Human Kinetics, Inc.)
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Abstract

Blackcurrant contains anthocyanins, known to influence vasorelaxation and peripheral blood flow. We examined the effects of 7 days intake of Sujon New Zealand blackcurrant powder (6g/day) on the lactate curve, maximum oxygen uptake, and cardiovascular responses at rest and during cycling. Thirteen trained triathletes with >3 yrs experience (8 men, age: 38±8 yrs, body mass: 71±9 kg, BF%: 19±5%, mean±SD) performed two incremental cycling protocols with recording of physiological and cardiovascular responses (Portapres® Model 2). Cardiovascular function was also measured in rest. Experimental design was double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized and cross-over (wash-out 4 wks). Data was analysed with two-tailed t-tests and 2-way ANOVA and significance accepted at p<0.05. Plasma lactate was lower at 40%, 50%, 60% and 70% of maximum power by 27%, 22%, 17% and 13%. Intensity at 4 mmol∙L-1 OBLA was 6% higher with blackcurrant without effect on heart rate and oxygen uptake. Maximum values of oxygen uptake, heart rate and power were not affected by blackcurrant, but obtained with 14% lower lactate. In rest, blackcurrant increased stroke volume and cardiac output by 25% and 26%, and decreased total peripheral resistance by 16%, with no changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Cardiovascular responses during exercise at 40%, 50%, 60%, 70% and 80% intensity were not affected. Sujon New Zealand blackcurrant powder affects lactate production and/or clearance during exercise. Sujon New Zealand blackcurrant powder affects physiological and cardiovascular responses in rest and during exercise that may have implications for exercise performance.

Publication Type: Articles
Subjects: Q Science > QP Physiology
Divisions: Research Entities > CCASES
Academic Areas > Institute of Sport > Area > Exercise Physiology
Related URLs:
Depositing User: Mark Willems
Date Deposited: 27 Mar 2015 11:40
Last Modified: 10 Oct 2018 12:33
URI: https://eprints.chi.ac.uk/id/eprint/1362

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