The Effects of Açai (Euterpe Oleracea Mart) on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness in Collegiate Male Athletes and Non-Athletes
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Keywords
Dietary Supplementation, Downhill Running, Muscle Damage
Abstract
Introduction: Eccentric exercise often results in the production of markers of oxidative stress and an inflammatory response, which leads to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). DOMS is associated with impaired muscular performance. Dietary interventions may reduce inflammation and improve physical performance. The aim of the study was to determine if Açai supplementation reduces muscle soreness and improves muscle function.
Methods: Twenty collegiate athletes and non-athletes were counterbalanced into an Açai group or a placebo group. Supplementation started 48 hours prior to a bout of downhill running (DR). Range of motion, muscle soreness perception, agility, and vertical jump were assessed at baseline, immediately after DR, 24, and 48 hours after DR.
Results: The Açai group (N = 10) reported significantly less muscle soreness in the quadriceps muscle (p = .011) compared to the placebo group (N = 10). Furthermore, the Açai group showed improvements in range of motion, agility, and vertical jump displacement compared to the placebo group throughout all 4-time periods. Conclusions: Açai appears to be an effective supplement to decrease quadriceps muscle soreness after downhill running. This decrease in soreness may contribute to performance gains also noted in the Açai group.
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