Neuromuscular Responses to Acute Beetroot Ingestion in Women Older Adults

Neuromuscular Responses to Acute Beetroot Ingestion in Women Older Adults. Performance and Side Effects

Beetroot juice supplementation has shown the capacity for provoking different physiological effects (e.g. vasodilation and muscle contraction increments). However, the effects of beetroot juice ingestion on neuromuscular performance in women older adults are barely studied. In this randomized placebo-controlled study, we investigated the effects of beetroot acute supplementation in improving neuromuscular performance in women older adults

Beetroot juice supplementation has shown the capacity for provoking different physiological effects that could affect human performance (e.g. vasodilation and muscle contraction increments). Although this dietary supplement has been commonly used for improving sports performance in recreational or professional athletes, the scientific literature in older adults is scarce. Thus, in our knowledge, no previous studies have analyzed the side effects associated to ingestion in this population group. In this randomized placebo-controlled study, we investigated the effects of beetroot acute supplementation in improving neuromuscular performance and side effects associated with ingestion in women older adults.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women >65 or <85 years of age.
• In good health, as determined by the investigator's review of history.

Exclusion Criteria: (based in previous studies on this topic (doi: 10.1093/gerona/glaa311).

Men and women <65 or >85 years of age Unable to provide informed consent Current smokers Significant orthopedic limitations or other contraindications to strenuous exercise Those taking proton pump inhibitors, antacids, xanthine oxidase inhibitors, or on hormone replacement therapy Those taking anti-coagulants or on anti-platelet therapy History of neuromuscular disease (e.g., cervical spondylotic radiculomyelpathy, lumbar spondylosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and acquired demyelinating polyneuropathies) Cardiovascular disease (e.g., > stage I hypertension, heart failure, myocardial infarction/ischemia significant myocardial or pericardial diseases (e.g. amyloidosis, constriction), Moderate or severe valvular disease, renal disease, liver disease, or anemia