Antioxidant supplements and their synergistic effects on immune function, energy levels and physical performance

In this study, Japanese researchers investigated the effects of a supplement containing a combination of antioxidants, amino acids, krill oil and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on physical performance and fatigue. Their findings were published in the Japanese Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

•  The researchers recruited 19 members of the women’s softball club at a physical education university and asked them to take either the supplement (denoted as V7) or a placebo for 30 days.
• Aside from DHA and krill oil, V7 contained astaxanthin, reduced coenzyme Q10 and the amino acids, leucine, arginine and citrulline.
• The researchers reported that V7 significantly improved the athletes’ scores for a total of six items, namely, leg fatigue, the state of the hips, the state of the back, skin blotches, eye strain and performance in a 50-meter sprint.
• They attributed these improvements to the various components of the supplement, beginning with DHA and krill oil.
• Krill oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).
• The researchers explained that krill oil in phospholipid form is taken up by the cell membrane together with DHA. They then enhance cell function by prompting cells to take up nutrients and quickly eliminate waste products.
• Reduced coenzyme Q10, on the other hand, helps with energy production and, together with astaxanthin, acts as an antioxidant that inhibits physical deterioration, fights inflammation, enhances immunity and reduces fatigue by increasing endurance.
• Meanwhile, leucine, arginine and citrulline stimulate muscle protein synthesis, which could help alleviate muscle fatigue in the legs, knees, hips and back, as well as improve physical performance.

Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that the combination of omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids and antioxidants can help reduce fatigue and enhance athletic performance.

Journal Reference:

Sudo A, Yamada K, Yazawa K. EFFECTS OF CONSUMING A SUPPLEMENT WITH ANTIOXIDANT ACTION ON PHYSICAL FATIGUE AND SPORTS PERFORMANCE. Japanese Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 31 March 2019;16(1):21-26. DOI: 10.1625/jcam.16.21