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Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) fruit extract improves physical fatigue and exercise performance in mice
Shih-Yi Wang1, Wen-Ching Huang, Chieh-Chung Liu
1Department of Food and Nutrition, Providence University, Taichung 43301, Taiwan.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|October 11, 2012
Summary
Pumpkin fruit extract (CME) enhances exercise performance and combats fatigue by boosting energy stores and reducing fatigue markers. This study shows CME
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) is a globally consumed, nutritious vegetable.
- Understanding its physiological effects, particularly on fatigue and performance, is of interest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the anti-fatigue and ergogenic effects of Cucurbita moschata fruit extract (CME).
- To investigate the impact of CME on physiological markers related to exercise performance and fatigue.
Main Methods:
- Male ICR mice were administered varying doses of CME (50, 100, 250 mg/kg/day) or vehicle for 14 days.
- Evaluated anti-fatigue effects through exhaustive swimming time, forelimb grip strength, and plasma markers (lactate, ammonia, glucose, creatine kinase).
- Assessed resting muscular and hepatic glycogen levels post-supplementation.
Main Results:
- CME supplementation dose-dependently increased forelimb grip strength and loaded swimming time.
- CME increased blood glucose and muscular/hepatic glycogen levels, indicating enhanced energy storage.
- CME dose-dependently reduced plasma lactate, ammonia, and creatine kinase activity post-exercise.
Conclusions:
- Cucurbita moschata fruit extract (CME) demonstrates significant anti-fatigue properties.
- The ergogenic effects are linked to improved energy metabolism and reduced exercise-induced physiological stress.
- CME shows potential as a natural supplement for enhancing endurance and combating fatigue.
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