12/18/2018 / By Michelle Simmons
Want better athletic performance? Researchers from the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili in Iran suggest supplementing with saffron. In their study, published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements, they found that saffron can boost athletic performance and recovery, after looking at its potential-enhancing effect on physical performance, stamina, and recovery.
For their study, the researchers recruited 28 nonactive and healthy male university students. Then, they divided them into two groups: a treatment group and a control group. The treatment group took 300 mg of dried saffron stigma daily for 10 days, while the control group received a placebo.
Saffron, which resembles thin, red threads, is a spice that originates from a flower called saffron crocus (Crocus sativus). Although widely used in cooking, this spice is also used for medicinal purposes. Its benefits range from moisturizing the skin to treating mild depression. Saffron is reported to contain more than 150 compounds that have medicinal properties, such as carotenoids. Studies have also shown that it acts as an antioxidant, fights inflammation, benefits the brain and nerves, and is good for the heart. (Related: Saffron: Most benefits and expensive spice on earth.)
The researchers measured the participants’ familiarization with the tests, anthropometric parameters, visual and audio reaction times, and the maximum isometric and isotonic forces on a leg press machine one day before and after the intervention period. Muscular strength, pulmonary function, and reaction time are important to athletic performance.
The study demonstrated that those who had saffron supplements for 10 days exhibited significant improvement in isometric and the isotonic forces, as well as faster visual and audio reaction times compared to those who took the placebo. The saffron supplementation also potentially contributed to the improvement of muscle blood perfusion and facilitation of oxygen transportation.
With these findings, the researchers concluded that 10 days of supplementation with saffron significantly improved athletic performance.
Taking supplements for exercise and training recovery is also important. Recovery involves repairing muscle and tissue, eliminating waste products, and reducing inflammation. It also includes replenishing nutrients and energy stores needed for cellular activity and improving the communication pathways between the brain and the body. Here are some supplements beneficial for exercise and training recovery:
Read more news stories and studies on natural supplements by going to SupplementsReport.com.
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Tagged Under: Athletes, athletic performance, exercise, fitness, nutrients, saffron, slender, supplements