Impacts of Quercetin Supplementation Post-Exercise

Abstract

Introduction: Quercetin (Q) is a flavonoid that has been shown to be an antioxidant in vitro. A current review is necessary to evaluate whether Q can improve biochemical damage markers following exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Objective: Specify the impact of Q supplementation on EIMD, DOMS, and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α) after exercise. Methods: Participants (n=28) were randomly assigned to Q (1000 mg/day) and placebo (PLA). Intake was done 48 hours before EMID to 96 hours after EMID (one week). Before EIMD (PRE) and 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after EIMD, blood samples were collected for CK and measurement of inflammatory cytokines. ANOVA test was used for data analysis with a significance P > 0.05. Results: Peak DOMS was seen 48 hours after EIMD, regardless of the DOMS combination. Q had a significant reducing effect on CK response at 24 hours (-43%), 48 hours (-48%), 72 hours (-56%), and 96 hours (-67%) after EIMD compared to placebo. IL-10 and IL-6 did not change statistically for the applied sample size. TNF-α was lower by Q intake significantly at 24 hours (-24%), 48 hours (-22%), and 96 hours (-22%) compared to PLA. Furthermore, the TNF-α trend was lower with Q intake at 72 hours (-19%). Conclusion: Q supplementation decreased biological inflammation during post-IMD recovery but not quadriceps DOMS. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Studies – Investigating Treatment Outcomes.