We evaluated here the effects of 6-week intervention with herbal supplement on exercise performance outcomes and serum biomarkers of antioxidant status. In addition, we also assessed the long-term effects (6-month) of the intervention in elderly adults.

Experimental protocol

• Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over trial
• 6-week intervention trial (with additiional follow-up arm after 6 months)
• Experimental intervention (PhytoDyNAmic) = 6 capsules per day
• Placebo (inulin) = 1 g per day b.i.d.
• Administration = 3 capsules with breakfast and 3 capsules with dinner
• Wash-out period = 2 weeks
• No changes in physical activity patterns and diet during the study

Outcomes assessed at baseline and at each follow-up:

• Exercise performance during incremental running-to-exhaustion test
• Serum biomarkers of antioxidant status
• Total antioxidant capacity (TAC)
• Superoxide dismutase (SOD)
• Telomerase activity

Early termination criteria

- Serious subjective side effects of an intervention (e.g. nausea, vomiting, bloating)

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years
• Body mass index 19 - 25 kg/m2
• Free of major chronic diseases or acute disorders

Exclusion Criteria:

• Use of dietary supplements within 4 weeks before study commences
• Unwillingness to return for follow-up analysis