The effects of alpha-lipoic acid and creatine supplementation on exercise-induced oxidative stress

Introduction

This study investigates the effects on the antioxidant system of combining high-intensity training with Cr and ALA supplementation. Oral creatine (Cr) supplementation has been used to enhance athletic performance, to maximize power and speed in sprinting, for example. Oral creatine (Cr) is also used to counter free radicals induced by high-intensity exercise. The effect of combining Cr with ALA (Alpha-lipoic acid) supplementation on exercise-induced oxidative stress is unknown.

Methods

Five active and well-trained, male swimmers (21.00_0.71 yr.; 73.20_8.46 kg; BMI: 24.26_2.30) were given dietary creatine (20g/d in 1st wk. then 5g/d in last three wk.) and ALA (100 mg/d); training schedule ( 3000-3500m/d, 5 d/wk, 85-90 % HRR reserve). The experiment lasted 4 weeks in total. Test protocol was set 20 _ 50m at 85-90 % HRR reserve. Blood sample were obtained to assess SOD, MDA, T-GSH ,GSH-Px, and creatine concentration from pre- and post test. Student t-test was used for data analysis.

Results

Data showed a biochemical value change rate from -5.04％ to 98.5% after training. MDA increased significantly(almost double) after exercise test (P<.05). The GSH-Px decreased obviously (P<.05) before ALA supplementation, and after the difference disappears. There was no difference in SOD, T-GSH in all subjects.

Discussion / Conclusions

High-intensity exercise induced more oxidative stress, which decreased after antioxidant supplementation. Our study concludes that serious swimming training causes an increase in oxidative stress like general land exercise and the exercise load may be is a real fact but Cr dietary. The effects of combining Cr and ALA supplementation in swimmers may have a positive effect on exercise-induced oxidative stress.

References

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