The experimental effect of Lycium barbarum on redox homeostasis in physical exercise

Authors: Camelia Manuela Mîrza 1, Diana Topârcean 2, Tudor-Valentin Mîrza 3

Affiliation: 1 Pathophysiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca

                         2 Student, Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca

                         3 National Institute of Public Health – Regional Center of Public Health Cluj

 Abstract

Background. Goji has over 100 potentially beneficial constituents for the human body contained in all parts of the plant, especially in fruit and roots. Data from the literature have suggested beneficial effects on the human body after long-term Goji juice intake.

Aims. We studied the antioxidant effect of Lycium barbarum (Goji) natural juice on the body subjected to physical exercise.

Methods. The oxidant-antioxidant balance indicators were determined in 6 groups of male Wistar rats (n = 6 animals/group) which performed physical exercise through the swimming test. Some groups only performed physical exercise, while others were subjected to physical exercise and received an additional daily intake of Lycium barbarum natural juice. Nitro-oxidative stress was measured by serum determination of total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), total thiols, nitrites and nitrates.

Results. Increased TAC and serum thiol levels confirmed the antioxidant potential of Lycium barbarum during physical exercise. The daily intake of Lycium barbarum natural juice led to the reduction of oxidative stress and, implicitly, of lipid peroxidation, as evidenced by the decrease of serum MDA values.

Conclusions. Under experimental conditions, the administration of natural Lycium barbarum juice was beneficial by increasing exercise capacity. Due to its energetic and antioxidant effect, Lycium barbarum could represent a natural, non-doping alternative for improving sports performance.

Keywords: Lycium barbarum (Goji), oxidant-antioxidant balance, physical exercise.

Cuvinte cheie: Lycium barbarum (Goji), balanţă oxidanţi/antioxidanţi, efort fizic.

https://doi.org/10.26659/pm3.2017.18.3.144

The experimental effect of Lycium barbarum on redox homeostasis in physical exercise