FINDINGS from a new blackcurrant study may provide scientists with good reason to re-evaluate a present notion surrounding the use of antioxidants for recovery from exercise.
Until now, academics have debated whether antioxidants are beneficial for post-exercise recovery. They believe they block positive events when training to get fitter and stronger.
New Zealand-grown blackcurrants contain one of the highest anthocyanin densities of any fruit and are potent antioxidants, anti-inflammatories and blood flow-promoters.
As such, and because of their unique growing environment, they are in a league of their own compared to other popular ‘recovery’ fruits such as blueberries and cherries (see table below).
Anthocyanin comparison of common fruit sources
This new data from New Zealand Plant and Food shows that blackcurrant has a remarkable effect on enhancing recovery from exercise – and contrary to common belief, it's unlikely to be due to any direct antioxidant action.
It transpires from the new research that blackcurrant is behaving in a different manner than previously thought (or the scientists assumed).
According to the study, New Zealand blackcurrant extract unquestionably enhances post-exercise recovery.
It also has a significant effect on post-exercise immune function. (Click here for the article).
So, what is blackcurrant’s mode of action?
The body naturally has its own defence systems and generates its own antioxidants to mop up free radicals. Researchers believe that the anthocyanin-rich berry is in fact stimulating these naturally-occurring 'adaptive pathways' in cells and tissues.
In other words, it's looking like blackcurrant anthocyanins, not antioxidants, help the body respond effectively to stress arising from an exercise event.
Multiple peer-reviewed sports performance studies show CurraNZ is incredibly effective for boosting cardiovascular function and fat burning adaptations during exercise.
Its muscle recovery and immunity benefits further build on the compelling picture of how blackcurrants can naturally enhance the benefits of exercise and boost the body’s naturally-occurring defences, making it truly unique for its clever array of actions.
However, we’re yet to fully understand blackcurrant’s broader training adaptations in the muscular-skeletal system. Further research will add to the picture over the coming months and years.
It certainly seems that blackcurrant anthocyanins vs vitamin-based antioxidants are not all equal, and these berries are developing into a ‘black box’ of powerful biological modifiers for health and fitness.
*This research reiterates the functional benefits of CurraNZ, which is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee for muscle recovery.
