INTRODUCTION: Sports supplements and ergogenic aids are widely used for performance enhancement in recreational and professional sports. Athletes undergo intense training to improve their cardiorespiratory and muscular systems, aiming for positive adaptations. However, intensified training without appropriate dietary support can pose risks such as inadequate muscle recovery, weakened immune function, and reduced sleep quality, leading to increased susceptibility to illness and heightened physiological and psychological stress. The recent removal of cannabidiol (CBD) from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibited list has increased its popularity among athletes for its potential benefits on recovery and sleep. However, concerns about its safety and legality in sport persist, leading many governing bodies to caution against its use. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a Generally Recognised as Safe (GRAS) supplement, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects and supports joint health. It also shows potential for stress and anxiety management, with ongoing research demonstrating this. Levagen+®, a formulated PEA, offers a safe, legal alternative to CBD, showing promise for recovery and sleep improvements. Additionally, PEA demonstrates neuroprotective and immunomodulating properties, indicating the potential benefits for athlete health, performance, and recovery. However, further research is needed to confirm Levagen+®'s efficacy as an ergogenic aid, especially in endurance sports. The aim of this trial is to explore the effects of Levagen+® supplementation on physical, physiological and psychological recovery during a prolonged period (one week) of intensified cycling training, when administered over a period of 45 days.
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Exercise performance following intensified training during cycling tests in PEA supplemented athletes
Timeframe: The parameters will be measured before the 40km cycling time trial and every 10km during the trial (overall completion time will also be recorded) on baseline first visit (Day 0), second visit (Day 35), third visit (Day 43), endpoint forth visit (Day45)
Exercise performance following intensified training during cycling tests in PEA supplemented athletes
Timeframe: The parameters will be measured before the 40km cycling time trial and every 10km during the trial (overall completion time will also be recorded) on baseline first visit (Day 0), second visit (Day 35), third visit (Day 43), endpoint forth visit (Day45)
Changes in levels of fatigue, quality of sleep, muscle soreness and mood during the intensified training and recovery period using questionnaires.
Timeframe: Questionnaires collected daily between days 33 and 45 (inclusive)
Changes in exercise-associated inflammatory markers associated with intensified training in PEA supplemented athletes
Timeframe: The parameters will be measured before and immediately after exercise on baseline first visit (Day 0), second visit (Day 35), third visit (Day 43) and endpoint forth visit (Day 45)
Changes in exercise-associated inflammatory markers associated with intensified training in PEA supplemented athletes
Timeframe: The parameters will be measured before and immediately after exercise on baseline first visit (Day 0), second visit (Day 35), third visit (Day 43) and endpoint forth visit (Day 45)
Mohammed Gulrez Zariwala, PhD