3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic Acid Attenuates the Fatigue and Improves Exercise Tolerance in Rats

Abstract

3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid (3,4-DA) is a natural compound with high antioxidant potential found in various foods. This study found that animals administered with 3,4-DA had higher exercise tolerance, reduced blood lactate, and markers of hepatic oxidation. Blood glucose and antioxidant enzymes were not affected by this treatment. 3,4-DA may have applicability in reducing the fatigue associated with exercise.

Effects of Dietary Green Rooibos on Physical Endurance in Swimming Mice

“…The other mechanism underlying prolongation of swimming time can be induced by the antioxidative activity of dietary components [12,13]. Increased intake of 3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid known as one of the strongest antioxidants, decreased blood lactate levels and increased physical endurance in rats [12]. Dietary ferulic acid, another antioxidant, also increased physical endurance and decreased fatigue in swimming mice [13].…”

“…Increased intake of 3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid known as one of the strongest antioxidants, decreased blood lactate levels and increased physical endurance in rats [12]. Dietary ferulic acid, another antioxidant, also increased physical endurance and decreased fatigue in swimming mice [13]. Apart from aspalathin, rooibos contains other dihydrochalcones such as nothofagin, which have antioxidative activity [14].…”

Metabolomics profiling of xenobiotics in elite athletes: relevance to supplement consumption

“…These include caffeic acid (3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid) that is produced by all plants including thyme, sage, spearmint, cinnamon, star anise, black chokeberry, tea and coffee and can also be consumed as a supplement. Caffeic acid-treated animals had enhanced exercise tolerance, lower blood lactate and hepatic oxidation [ 25 ]. The derivative of caffeic acid (caffeic acid phenethyl ester) was shown previously to protect against hyperthermal stress induced by prolonged exercise [ 26 ].…”