Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Faculty member, University of Tehran, PhD
2
Alborz Pardis Unit, University of Tehran,
3
Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
10.22059/jsb.2026.417764.1715
Abstract
Introduction: In order to assess physiological adaptations, this study first compared the level of oxidative and inflammatory markers in male football players with their matched non-athlete counterparts, and then examined the changes in these markers following beetroot juice consumption.
Methods: In a semi-experimental design, 30 male football players from the Tehran Premier League in two groups (BJ and PLA) and 30 non-athlete counterparts (control) were included in the study using a convenience sampling method. Changes in oxidative (MDA, SOD, CAT, GPx) and inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, IL-1ra) markers within and between groups were analyzed using paired t-tests and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).
Results: Regarding inflammatory markers, high concentrations of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha, Interleukin-10, and the Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist were observed (t > 7.897, p < 0.04, d < 0.55). The results of the analysis of covariance revealed increased changes in oxidative concentrations in the BJ group (F > 40.004, p < 0.012, d < 0.67). However, no significant difference was created in the inflammatory cytokines between the two groups (F < 15.047, p > 0.104, d > 0.38).
Conclusion: The positive changes in enzymatic antioxidants following beetroot consumption indicate the ergogenic potential of the extract in eliminating free radicals. However, the increase in MDA is likely dependent on the level of physical activity and the baseline levels of other enzymes and the lack of change in inflammatory cytokines is probably dependent on the factors causing inflammation.
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