The Muscle Mag
Researchers from Italy conducted a study to assess the impact of twice-daily supplementation on a group of 20 male water polo players over an eight-week period, using subjective evaluations at the beginning and end of the study. The results indicated a positive association between spirulina supplementation and improved Athlete’s Subjective Performance Scale (ASPS) scores.
In an article published in the journal Nutrients, the authors stated that “A dietary supplement containing spirulina and copper may have beneficial effects on reducing muscle stress and improving subjective performance measures in water polo players.” They suggested that these findings could lead to the development of tailored nutritional strategies for athletes involved in high-intensity sports.
Spirulina for athletes
Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis), a nutrient-rich microalgae, is known for its high protein, essential amino acid, vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant content.
Research has shown that spirulina may help prevent exercise-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and muscle damage, as well as increase glutathione levels and reduce lipid peroxidation from exercise. Phycocyanin, a component of spirulina, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, while dietary copper intake has been linked to improved athletic performance and recovery.
The unique physical demands of water polo, such as extended submersion in water, intense sprints, and the need for upper body strength and stamina, provided a specific context for the study according to the authors.
Reduced muscle stress
The participants in the study were males aged 18 to 35 with at least three years of competitive water polo experience, attending a minimum of five training sessions a week.
They were divided into two groups: one consumed a supplement containing spirulina liquid extract with added copper twice daily for eight weeks, while the other group received no supplementation. Subjective evaluations were done using the ASPS questionnaire, measuring various aspects of athletes’ perceptions of their performance and experiences.
Blood tests to measure creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels, a marker of muscle stress and damage, were conducted at baseline and after the intervention, showing a significant increase in ASPS scores and lower muscle stress in the spirulina group compared to the control group.
The study concluded that the supplement could potentially reduce muscle stress and improve performance, but further randomized controlled trials are needed to validate these findings across different sports and populations, explore different dosages, and investigate the combined effects of spirulina and copper.
Journal: Nutrients
doi: 10.3390/nu16152421
“Effects of a Dietary Microalgae (Arthrospira platensis) Supplement on Stress, Well-Being, and Performance in Water Polo Players: A Clinical Case Series.”
Authors: Igazio La Mantia et al.
