subject: Antioxidants for Muscle Strength and Recovery [print this page] Antioxidants for Muscle Strength and Recovery
Exotic appeal and flavor are not the only things that attract consumers to superfruits. Superfruits are packed with antioxidants and nutrients that work to neutralize free radical activity in the body and support health on a cellular level. But even beyond antioxidant activity, two recent studies published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research,1 reveal that some fruits, particularly blueberries and apples, are known to contain polyphenols that work to strengthen muscles and improve muscle recovery.
Blueberry Extracts
Wild blueberries are native to North America and are known to have anti-aging properties. A study conducted in 2005 entitled Blueberries and the Aging Brain: Beyond Antioxidants2 shows they help improve neuromotor skills and memory. Researchers discovered that polyphenols present in blueberries not only help to enhance short-term memory, balance and coordination but have the ability to improve muscle strength and stamina as well.
The first study on blueberry antioxidants published in the Molecular Nutrition & Food Research (2010, Volume 54)1 further found that antioxidants in blueberries help protect muscle tissue from free radical activity that builds up during workouts through active compounds called malvidin galactoside and/or glucoside. Studies conducted at New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Ltd show that blueberries help lessen the damage done to muscle fibers during intensive exercise sessions. Blueberry extracts can help increase muscle strength and reduce recovery periods between intensive workouts.
Apple Polyphenols
Apple polyphenols (APP) are extracted from the skin of the fruit and hence do not contain natural sugars found in apples. They are known to have properties that are anti-cancerous, anti-fungal, anti-viral and help promote healthy glycemic levels. The FDA confirms that apple polyphenols are safe to consume even at high dosage.
The second study published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research (2010, Volume 54)1 conducted on apple polyphenols confirms the protective effects of dietary APP on muscle injury associated with exercise-induced muscle strain. Scientists at the Nippon Sport Science University in Tokyo were able to show that dietary APP has the ability to improve normal muscle function. Athletes who want to burn body fat and increase muscle strength may find nutritional support through an antioxidant supplement containing dietary APP.
These findings came after a 2004 joint research study3 conducted by Asahi Breweries, Ltd. and researchers at Nippon Sport Science University had already revealed that dietary APP could help improve muscle power and lower body fat. This three-week study conducted on laboratory animals showed that dietary APP was able to reduce organ fat by 27 percent and increase muscle strength by 16 percent.
Manufacturing Supplements for Muscle Strength and Recovery
Supplement companies seeking to produce products with special focus on fat loss, muscle strength and recovery, should consider blueberry extracts and apple polyphenols. These are natural ingredients with no known side effects.
Consult a quality private label manufacturer for ready stock of antioxidant sports supplements specifically designed specifically to strengthen muscles and overcome muscle fatigue. Purchasing pre-formulated stock that is scientifically-supported from private label manufacturers that emphasize high-quality manufacturing within a GMP-certified facility will ensure you receive a product that can give your customers superior results.
