The effect of a crossfit training period with spirulina supplementation on some indicators of oxidative stress in young male

Targeted exercise training plays an essential role in cardiorespiratory function by improving antioxidant capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 8 weeks of cross-fit training with spirulina supplementation on serum levels of malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase in young male athletes.

In this quasi-experimental study, 20 athletes with an Average of 22.95 88±1.88 years were selected and randomly divided into two groups of placebo (n = 10) and supplement (n = 10). The supplement group participated in an 8-week crossfit exercise program for 3 sessions of 60 minutes while taking four spirulina tablets (500 mg) daily. Blood samples were taken 24 hours before and 48 hours after the intervention period to measure the above indicators. Data analysis was performed using paired t-test and analysis of covariance.

After eight weeks of training, malondialdehyde levels decreased (P=0.02) and glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase levels showed a significant increase in the supplement group compared with the placebo group (crossfit training).( P=0.01). Covariance test showed that there was a significant difference between the groups. Malondialdehyde (P=0.01), superoxide dismutase (P = 0.02) and glutathione peroxidase (P=0.03) were improved in the supplement group compared with placebo group.

It seems that crossfit training along with spirulina supplementation can improve antioxidant status and reduce oxidative damage and possibly improve cardiac and respiratory performance of athletes