RecruitingACTRN12625000302459

Investigating the effects of pine back extract and black currants on the athletic performance of endurance athletes.

Investigating the efficacy of pine bark extract and black currant supplements on athletic performance in endurance athletes.

Sponsor

University of Otago, Department of Physiology

Enrollment

26 participants

Start Date

Feb 13, 2025

Study Type

Interventional

Conditions

Exercise Endurance

Summary

The primary aim of this study is to determine if two commercially available supplements can improve athletic performance by enhancing VO2max (a measure of aerobic capacity), submaximal substrate utilization, lung function, muscle oxygenation, nitric oxide levels, and blood lactate levels. We hypothesize that these supplements, which are typically used to promote health and longevity in older or diseased populations, can also provide a competitive edge to athletes by improving various physiological functions and performance metrics.

Eligibility

Sex: Both males and femalesMin Age: 20 YearssMax Age: 50 Yearss

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is looking at whether two commercially available natural supplements — pine bark extract and black currant extract — can improve athletic performance in competitive endurance athletes. These supplements are typically used for general health in older or unwell populations, but researchers believe they may also benefit healthy athletes by improving oxygen use, lung function, muscle oxygenation, and exercise capacity. Participants will take the supplements for two weeks and complete a series of exercise tests on a cycle ergometer — including measurements of peak oxygen uptake (VO2max) and submaximal performance — comparing results before and after supplementation. The study aims to include both male and female athletes. You may be eligible if you are a competitive cyclist, triathlete, or long-distance runner (Grade A or B regionally/nationally), aged 20–50 for males or 20–35 for females. You must not currently be taking antioxidant supplements and must be able to commit to multiple testing sessions at the University of Otago. People with medical conditions, asthma, or other factors affecting exercise are not eligible.

This is a simplified summary. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

Print for Your Doctor Check Your Eligibility

Interested in this trial?

Get notified about updates and connect with the research team.

Interventions

There will be two interventional groups, both of which will receive one of two different supplements for 2 weeks in total. The two supplements are: Zestt Wellness's Liquid Breathe +, and Plasmaide.

There will be two interventional groups, both of which will receive one of two different supplements for 2 weeks in total. The two supplements are: Zestt Wellness's Liquid Breathe +, and Plasmaide. 1. Breathe + by Zestt Wellness Actives: Boysenberry and blackcurrant, japonica saphora’s flavonoid quercetin, and probiotic BLISK12. Full Ingredient List: Boysenberry and blackcurrant, japonica saphora’s flavonoid quercetin, and probiotic BLISK12. Dosage: 35mL per day, 1-2 hours before exercise, containing: Anthocyanins (boysenberry and blackcurrant): 2625 mg, Quercetin: 175 mg, Chelated zinc: 5.25 mg, UMF 20+ Manuka honey: 175 mg. 2. Plasmaide by Plasmaide: Actives: Pinus pinaster stem bark extract. Full Ingredient List: Water, Emulsifier (Xanthan Gum) (E415), Sodium Chloride, Black Carrot Extract, Southern Fulvic Acid, Watermelon Flavour, Acidity Regulator (Citric Acid) (E330), Pine Bark Extract, Preservatives (E202, E211), Sweetener (Steviol Glycosides). Dosage: 2 packets (90 mL total) per day (1 packet 30 to 60 minutes before and after exercise). Pinus pinaster stem bark extract equivalent to dry stem bark 520g/90 mL (1 serving: 260g/45ml). Participants will be asked to continue to undertake their usual and prescribed training programs throughout the study. Before VO2max and submaximal exercise testing, the participant will be well rested and would have refrained from intense exercise for at least 24 hours. All four exercise tests will be conducted at similar times of the day for each participant. They will be normally hydrated and would have refrained from taking any non-habituated stimulants, supplements, or medications, and refrain from eating a large meal within 2-3 hours of the test. Participants will also be asked to abstain from vape or cigarette smoking 4 hours before exercise, along with alcohol 12 hours before each test. Patients will perform all four exercise tests in their daily habituated state to preserve normalcy and establish a reliable baseline for any exercise testing. This includes preserving normal sleep routines, medications, and food and coffee consumption. These requirements will be advised during recruitment, prior to any exercise testing. Participants will be asked to return their empty bottles of supplement upon their final exercise test.

Locations(1)

Otago, New Zealand

View Full Details on ANZCTR

For the most up-to-date information, visit the official listing.

Visit

ACTRN12625000302459