Pistachios, Performance, Metabolomics

Influence of Pistachios on Performance and Exercise-induced Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Immune Dysfunction in Athletes: a Metabolomics-based Approach.

Ingestion of 3 ounces of pistachio nuts per day for two weeks before and the day of cycling intensely for 75 kilometers will support substrate utilization during exercise (as determined through metabolomics) and improve performance compared to water only, and attenuate inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune dysfunction during 24 hours of recovery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male endurance cyclists
• Capable of exercising for 2.5 h at a high intensity in the lab
• Ages 18-55
• Agree to train normally and stay weight stable.
• Agree to avoid the use of large dose vitamin/mineral supplements
• Agree to avoid herbs and medications that influence inflammation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Regularly take supplements or medicines known to effect inflammation.
• At moderate or high risk for cardiovascular disease.
• Younger than 18 or older than 55 years of age.
• No history of competing in cycling races.