Effect of astaxanthin supplementation on oxidative stress status and secretory IgA in saliva in young soccer players

Abstract

Exhaustive physical activity is associated with increased production of reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress. Enhanced free radical production leads to cellular loss of redox homeostasis and might result in muscular injury, soreness, and fatigue, and, consequently, decrements in physical performance. Methods to reduce free radical production and subsequent oxidative stress and muscle damage during and following physical exercise have been a priority of much research activity. Various antioxidants and their combinations were investigated. Astaxanthin is one of the main pigments belonging to the family of the xanthophylls, which is generally distributed in seafood. Recent studies continue to evidence the multiple possibilities of astaxanthin application in providing benefits to human health. The physiologic stress induced by prolonged and intensive exertion is reflected in transient yet significant immune system perturbations in multiple body compartments. The influence of several nutritional countermeasures to exercise-induced alterations of mucosal immunity have been investigated including carbo-hydrate, zinc, glutamine, bovine colostrum, caffeine, as well as several antioxidants. The purpose of the present investigation was to determine the effects of astaxanthin supplementation on oxidative stress and muscle damage in young soccer players while following their habitual dietary pattern and training program during competitive season. In addition, the effect of couple nutritional measures (sensory stimulation and astaxanthin supplementation) on mucosal immunity were investigated The study was performed in a group of 40 soccer players, 28 high school pupils, who did not practice intensive physical exercise regularly and 20 subjects who practiced karate recreationally. The study was conducted according to the guidelines laid down in Declaration of Helsinki. Experimental procedures were approved by the Ethical Committee of Sports Medicine Association of Serbia. Long-term soccer training is accompanied by an increased capacity of antioxidant systems. However, soccer players are exposed to higher level of oxidative stress in comparison to sedentary people. Soccer exercise is associated with excessive production of free radicals and oxidative stress which might diminish total antioxidant status. Supplementation with astaxanthin could prevent exercise induced free radical production and depletion of non enzymatic antioxidant defense in young soccer players. Regular soccer training over the period of 90 days provokes increased production of superoxide anion and decreased activity of superoxide dismutase. On the other hand, soccer training may result in decreased total oxidant status and prooxidant-antioxidant balance, probably due to an up regulation in the body's antioxidant defense system. Astaxanthin supplementation had beneficial effect on improving paraoxonase 1 activity toward paraoxon and diazoxon, as well as total sulphydryl groups content in young soccer players.…