Effects of cordyceps sinensis supplementation during 12 weeks in amateur marathoners: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial

Authors: Fellipe Pinheiro Savioli, Paulo Zogaib, Eduardo Franco, Fernando Cezar Alves de Salles, Guilherme Vieira Giorelli, Carlos Vicente Andreoli

Journal: Journal of Herbal Medicine

Study Design: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Participants: 30 amateur marathoners

Intervention:

• Cordyceps sinensis (2g/day) for 12 weeks
• Placebo for 12 weeks

Outcome Measures:

• Aerobic performance (5K test)
• Cardiopulmonary exercise test (VO2max, lactate thresholds L1 and L2)
• Heart rate at the same submaximal intensity

Summary: The study aimed to evaluate if Cordyceps sinensis supplementation could enhance aerobic performance in amateur marathoners. The researchers conducted a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 30 participants. The results showed that Cordyceps sinensis supplementation led to a significant improvement in aerobic performance, as measured by a 5K test, at the 12-week mark. Additionally, the supplementation resulted in a lower heart rate at the same submaximal intensity at the 8-week mark. However, no significant changes were observed in the cardiopulmonary exercise test parameters (VO2max, lactate thresholds L1 and L2). The study concludes that Cordyceps sinensis supplementation may be beneficial for improving aerobic performance in amateur marathon runners, particularly over a longer duration of 12 weeks. Note: This summary was based on a free-summary of this article, so there may be relevant information missing.