Beneficial Physiological Effects With Blackcurrant Intake in Endurance Athletes

Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2015 Aug;25(4):367-74. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.2014-0233. Epub 2015 Mar 26.

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 were analyzed with two-tailed t tests and 2-way ANOVA and significance accepted at p < .05. Plasma lactate was lower at 40%, 50%, 60% and 70% of maximum power by 27%, 22%, 17% and 13%. Intensity at 4 mmol · La(-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 types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use*
  • Athletic Performance
  • Bicycling
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • England
  • Fatigue / blood
  • Fatigue / metabolism
  • Fatigue / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • Fruit / chemistry*
  • Fruit / growth & development
  • Humans
  • Lactic Acid / blood
  • Lactic Acid / metabolism
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • New Zealand
  • Performance-Enhancing Substances / therapeutic use
  • Physical Endurance*
  • Ribes / chemistry*
  • Ribes / growth & development
  • Sports Nutritional Physiological Phenomena*
  • Vascular Resistance
  • Vasodilator Agents / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Performance-Enhancing Substances
  • Vasodilator Agents
  • Lactic Acid