Rhodiola crenulata- and Cordyceps sinensis-Based Supplement Boosts Aerobic Exercise Performance after Short-Term High Altitude Training

Abstract

. Rhodiola crenulata-and Cordyceps sinensis-based supplement boosts aerobic exercise performance after short-term high altitude training. High Alt Med Biol 15:371-379, 2014.-High altitude training is a widely used strategy for improving aerobic exercise performance. Both Rhodiola crenulata (R) and Cordyceps sinensis (C) supplements have been reported to improve exercise performance. However, it is not clear whether the provision of R and C during high altitude training could further enhance aerobic endurance capacity. In this study, we examined the effect of R and C based supplementation on aerobic exercise capacity following 2-week high altitude training. Alterations to autonomic nervous system activity, circulatory hormonal, and hematological profiles were investigated. Eighteen male subjects were divided into two groups: Placebo (n = 9) and R/C supplementation (RC, n = 9). Both groups received either RC (R: 1400 mg + C: 600 mg per day) or the placebo during a 2-week training period at an altitude of 2200 m. After 2 weeks of altitude training, compared with Placebo group, the exhaustive run time was markedly longer (Placebo: + 2.2% vs. RC: + 5.7%; p < 0.05) and the decline of parasympathetic (PNS) activity was significantly prevented in RC group (Placebo: -51% vs. RC: -41%; p < 0.05). Red blood cell, hematocrit, and hemoglobin levels were elevated in both groups to a comparable extent after high altitude training ( p < 0.05), whereas the erythropoietin (EPO) level remained higher in the Placebo group (*48% above RC values; p < 0.05). The provision of an RC supplement during altitude training provides greater training benefits in improving aerobic performance. This beneficial effect of RC treatment may result from better maintenance of PNS activity and accelerated physiological adaptations during high altitude training.

Rhodiola species: A comprehensive review of traditional use, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity, and clinical study

“…A systematic review of these studies reveals that Rhodiola preparations exhibit ergogenic, antifatigue and antidepressant properties, indicated by an enhancement of both physical and mental performance. Although contradictory results exist in different studies, most studies show that both R. rosea and R. crenulate are able to enhance physical performance in healthy subjects, indicating an ergogenic effect . Several commercially available R. rosea preparations, such as ADAPT‐232, SHR‐5, and WS 1375, are highly evidenced to benefit burnout patients or subjects with work‐ or stress‐related fatigue after repeated doses or a single dose .…”

The Mechanisms of Pharmacological Activities ofOphiocordyceps sinensisFungi

“…Studies also found that O . sinensis can increase hypoxia tolerance (Singh et al ., ) and ATP levels on muscle strength, power output and endurance (Chen et al ., ; Kumar et al ., ). Recent studies also demonstrated fascinating potentialities of O .…”

Lingzhi and Cordyceps

“…Participants took either placebo or a dietary supplement containing 1400 mg R crenulata and 600 mg Cordyceps daily for 2 weeks at an altitude of 2200 m 21 . The study found that participants taking the dietary supplement had significantly better aerobic exercise capacity, longer exhaustive run time, and better maintenance of parasympathetic activities 21 …”

“…The study found that patients treated with Cordyceps had significantly less incidence of contrast‐induced nephropathy. Chen et al 21 investigated the efficacy of Rhodiola crenulata and Cordyceps supplementation in improving aerobic endurance capacity and exercise performance in 18 male participants during high‐altitude training. Participants took either placebo or a dietary supplement containing 1400 mg R crenulata and 600 mg Cordyceps daily for 2 weeks at an altitude of 2200 m 21 .…”

“…Chen et al 21 investigated the efficacy of Rhodiola crenulata and Cordyceps supplementation in improving aerobic endurance capacity and exercise performance in 18 male participants during high‐altitude training. Participants took either placebo or a dietary supplement containing 1400 mg R crenulata and 600 mg Cordyceps daily for 2 weeks at an altitude of 2200 m 21 . The study found that participants taking the dietary supplement had significantly better aerobic exercise capacity, longer exhaustive run time, and better maintenance of parasympathetic activities 21 …”