Influence of Curcumin Supplementation on Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress

Background Polyphenols are a class of organic chemical compounds, with strong antioxidant capacity. This investigation evaluates the influences of one week curcumin supplementation on selected indices of oxidative stress after 14 km running in active healthy young males. Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 1 week of curcumin supplementation on anti-oxidant markers. Methods Subjects were randomized in a double blind, placebo-controlled fashion into two groups: Curcumin (C) (n = 11) and placebo (P) (n = 9). The subjects received supplementation (90 mg) or placebo for 7 days before main trial. Then, subjects ran 14 km. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA-TBARS) were measured using spectrophotometer methods. Results There was a significant increase in TAC after supplementation (P < 0.001, ES = 1. 42), and immediately after exercise (P = 0. 008, ES = 1. 12) in C group compared with the P group. MDA-TBARS was significantly lower in C group compared with the P group immediately after exercise (P = 0. 022, ES = 1. 00). GSH significantly increased immediately, 24, and 48 hours after exercise compared with pre-exercise only in C group (P < 0.05). Conclusions It is concluded one week oral supplementation of curcumin has positive effects on selected indices of oxidative stress possibly via promotion of antioxidant capacity.