Effects of Mistletoe Extract Supplementation on Inflammation Markers after Strenuous Exercise in Rowers

Abstract

Excessive long-term training and extensive exertion during exercise can inflammatory cytokine expression. Various measures have been explored to minimize this, and dietary supplements having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant functions can help athletes recover from repetitive intensive exercises, thereby preventing reduced vitality. PURPOSE: This study aimed to identify the effect of mistletoe extract consumption on inflammatory markers of university male rowing athletes for 8 weeks during the winter training period. METHODS: This study included 20 male rowing athletes divided into the Korean Mistletoe extract supplement group (KME, n = 10) and the control group (CON, n = 10). The KME group took 110 mL of mistletoe extract every morning and evening after meals (total of 220 mL) for eight weeks. Before and after taking mistletoe for eight weeks, 2,000 m rowing performance capabilities were measured, and KME group took 110 mL of mistletoe extract after recovery from the rowing exercise. Blood samples were collected during the rest, immediately after exercise, and after 30 min of recovery. Among inflammatory markers, IL-6 and TNF-α were analyzed. RESULTS: Both groups showed a significantly reduced 2,000-m rowing time (KME; p<0.001, CON; p<0.01), and the total number of strokes were significantly fewer in the KME group than in the CON group (p<0.05). After supplementation the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were lower in the KME group than in the CON group in all periods of the rest (p<0.001), immediately after exercise (IL-6; p<0.01, TNF- α; p<0.001), and after 30 min of recovery (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: Therefore, mistletoe extract intake can reduce the serum inflammatory cytokine levels (which are otherwise increased due to high-strength exercise) among active individuals, indicating improved anti-inflammatory activity.