Effect of astaxanthin on cycling time trial performance

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Nutritional Science
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Astaxanthin (AST) is a potent antioxidant with potential ergogenic properties.
• Understanding AST's impact on substrate metabolism and endurance performance is crucial for athletes.
• Previous research on AST and athletic performance has yielded mixed results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of 28-day AST supplementation on substrate metabolism and 20-km cycling time trial (TT) performance in competitive cyclists.
• To explore potential mechanisms, including changes in carbohydrate and fat oxidation, and fuel mobilization indices.

Main Methods:

• Randomized controlled trial with 21 competitive cyclists assigned to encapsulated AST (4 mg/d) or placebo (PLA) for 28 days.
• Testing included VO2max, a pre-exhaustion ride at 5% below VO2max, and a 20-km TT.
• Analysis of substrate oxidation and blood indices related to fuel mobilization.

Main Results:

• The AST group demonstrated significant improvements in 20-km TT performance (-121 s) compared to the PLA group (-19 s).
• AST supplementation led to a significant increase in power output (+20 W), which was not observed in the PLA group.
• No significant treatment effects were observed in carbohydrate oxidation, fat oxidation, or blood indices of fuel mobilization.

Conclusions:

• Twenty-eight days of Astaxanthin supplementation significantly enhances cycling time trial performance and power output in competitive cyclists.
• The ergogenic effect of AST on TT performance appears independent of alterations in substrate utilization or fuel mobilization.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying AST's performance-enhancing effects in athletes.