Growing body of evidence indicates favorable effects of Cornus mas (Cornelian cherry) supplements on cardiometabolic risk, including the improvement of HDL and glycemic indices, in line with vascular benefits. Experimental data feature bioactives from Cornelian cherry as potential modulators of vascular function and blood pressure, plausibly via endothelial nitric oxide-related pathways, with possible downstream effects on autonomic reflex control; nevertheless, such links in humans remain poorly explored to date, especially in terms of endurance training and hypoxia tolerance.

In this cross-over, placebo-controlled study, a group of healthy amateur long-distance runners underwent two stages of a four-week dietary intervention (separated by four weeks of washout period), receiving Cornelian cherry lyophilisate or placebo. Each supplementation stage was accompanied by the comprehensive evaluation of the cardio-respiratory parameters and endothelial function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age above 45 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• chronic disease of the nervous, cardiovascular or respiratory system
• disease of the digestive system, including history of the intestinal surgery, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, lactose intolerance and other malabsorption disorders
• blood pressure-lowering treatment within the past year
• tobacco smoking within the past year
• antibiotic/probiotic treatment and laxative/prokinetic usage in three months preceding the anticipated enrollment

This is a small trial which includes solely healthy volunteers. Therefore, data will not be shared at this instance.