New research ‘Goes the extra mile’ for
applications in sports nutrition
With six in 10 consumers in Europe making an effort to exercise more , there has also been a greater demand for information to understand the impact of physical activity on our bodies in recent years.[1]
Notably, microbiome-supporting solutions for sports nutrition is a rapidly developing area of research. ADM’s latest publication into the effects of a probiotic formulation on exercise-induced oxidative stress provides an interesting insight into the relationship between markers of oxidative stress, the microbiome and exercise.
Athletes are required to perform repeatedly, and for prolonged periods of time, at peak physical ability, avoiding injury, recovering quickly and achieving performance levels beyond that of the average population. Physical activity provides well-documented health benefits and is associated with reduced risk of a wide range of diseases – from cardiovascular disease to cognitive impairment. However, while regular physical activity promotes health benefits, rigorous or prolonged exercise can lead to an increase in oxidative stress, inflammation and muscle fatigue.
Oxidative stress is a phenomenon caused by a build-up of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells and tissues. ROS are a normal by-product of bodily functions such as breathing and digestion, however, if not strictly controlled, these ROS can damage cell structures and lead to several acute, chronic and degenerative disease processes. ADM’s research on the effect of probiotics on exercise-induced oxidative stress is one of the first human clinical trials of its type and provides an interesting proof of concept for further work in this area.[2]
Exercise induced production of ROS is associated with muscle fatigue, which may ultimately inhibit performance ability. There have been correlations observed between increases in markers of oxidative stress, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8-OHdG, and signs of muscle damage.[2]
In recent years, researchers have become increasingly aware of the pivotal role the human gut microbiome plays in normal physiology, as well as in the development of certain pathologies. The evidence base for the role of microbiome-supporting solutions, such as probiotic supplements, has been gathering momentum. Based on the current evidence, it is possible to postulate that modulation of the microbiome can affect markers of post-exercise oxidative stress and result in positive effects on post-exercise recovery.
A 2021 study[2] looked at 43 healthy males (18-45 years old) who undertook aerobic physical exercise 2-4 times per week. The study compared the effect of a 3-strain probiotic formulation on changes in oxidative stress markers compared to placebo. The researchers found that there was a statistically significant reduction in 8-OHdG levels after exercise in the probiotic group compared to placebo at the end of the 6-week intervention period (p<0.001).
The study also reported a statistically significant reduction in MDA levels after exercise in the probiotic group compared to the placebo group at the end of the 6-week intervention period (p<0.05). MDA is produced via lipid oxidation in response to a build-up of ROS, and is an indicator of oxidative stress levels.
These findings show exciting promise for the use of microbiome-supporting solutions in elite athletes and amateur sports people alike. At a time when consumers are looking to take a more proactive approach to their health, this research further demonstrates the potential for a probiotic blend to modulate markers of oxidative stress. Going forward, brands may want to harness the potential of probiotics to support exercise performance, in products for people who exercise regularly.
ADM, in a joint venture with Matsutani LLC, has also developed Fibersol®, a soluble fibre that provides all the desired benefits of dietary fibre. Fibersol® can help support consumers to maintain a healthy diet, with clinical studies suggesting that a consumption of Fibersol® with a meal delivers all the benefits of a dietary fibre, including improved digestion and reducing blood sugar spikes after a meal.[3, 4 ]Uniquely, Fibersol® can be added to a wide range of sports nutrition products such as protein powders, energy bars and beverages, as it has little impact on taste, texture or colour.
ADM offers an unparalleled portfolio anchored in consumer needs, enabling our customers to ignite growth via innovation. Through our pioneering science and robust research and development capabilities, we’re identifying untapped opportunities for food, beverage and dietary supplement brands and helping to create the next wave of growth for this sector.
References:
1 FMCG Gurus Active Nutrition Survey, 2021
2 Sánchez Macarro M, Ávila-Gandía V, Pérez-Piñero S, et al. Antioxidant Effect of a Probiotic Product on a Model of Oxidative Stress Induced by High-Intensity and
Duration Physical Exercise. Antioxidants 2021; 10: 323.
3 Ye, Z. (2015). Nutritional Research, 35, 393-400
4 Fernandez-Raudales, D. (2018). J. FNS., 9, 751-762
Richard Day
Medical Director, Health & Wellness
Richard is the Medical Director for ADM Health & Wellness, based in London, UK. In this role he has responsibility for both Medical Affairs and Clinical Development. He is responsible for the design and delivery of all clinical research across the Health & Wellness business, with a particular focus on microbiome solutions. He works in collaboration with many of the world’s leading Universities and academic research institutions, forming partnerships to deliver innovative research. Richard is also ADM’s representative on multiple international scientific bodies, including the International Life Sciences Institute and the Pharmabiotic Research Institute.
Since joining ADM in 2018, Richard has worked on multiple research projects and clinical trials, including research into migraine, male fertility, infection prevention, digestive health, anxiety and depression.
Richard is a medical doctor by training and holds degrees from the University of Oxford and King’s College London.
