Authors: Olivia Carmen Timnea1, Vladimir Potop2,3,4, Liviu Emanuel Mihăilescu2,
Andreea Consuela Timnea-Florescu5, Valeriu Jurat4, Carolina Moga4, Ion Mihăilă2,3
Affiliation
1Romanian-American University, Bucharest, Romania
2Department of Physical Education and Sport, National University of Science and Technology “Politehnica” Bucharest, University Center Pitesti, Romania
3Doctoral School of Sport Science and Physical Education, National University of Science and Technology “Politehnica” Bucharest, University Center Pitesti, Romania
4Moldova State University, Institute of Physical Education and Sport, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova
5Chiajna Medical Center, Romania
Abstract
Background. Antioxidant supplements, such as natural Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), have been studied for their essential role in reducing oxidative stress, preventing muscle damage, and enhancing post-exercise recovery by protecting muscle and liver cells from the damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during intense physical exertion.
Aims. The aim of the study is to evaluate the impact of natural SOD administration on the reduction of oxidative stress and on the modulation of the muscular and hepatic enzymatic profile in elite athletes.
Methods. The retrospective clinical study was conducted over two distinct periods, assessing the effects of natural SOD administration on elite soccer players. The study subjects were divided into an experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG), with a total of 42 participants. The CG included 16 subjects, while the EG consisted of 26 subjects. Each group was evaluated before and after the treatment, which lasted for a period of 2.5 to 3 months. Biochemical evaluations included tests for parameters such as AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) and creatine kinase (CK). Statistical analysis was performed using KyPlot 6.0 software, applying non-parametric tests for non-normally distributed and paired data, with a confidence level of 95%.
Results. The comparative analysis between the control and experimental groups revealed significant differences in the enzyme levels of AST (TGO), ALT (TGP) and creatine kinase (CK), with moderate effect sizes. This fact suggests a potential positive impact of the antioxidant treatment, more pronounced in female athletes. In contrast, no statistically significant changes were observed in the male subgroup. The intra-group analysis indicated significant decreases in AST, ALT and CK levels within the experimental group, reflecting a protective effect on liver function and a reduction in muscle stress following the treatment, thereby confirming the efficacy of the antioxidant intervention (p < 0.05). Although no values exceeding the normal reference ranges were explicitly mentioned, it is important to note that, in general, standard concentrations for AST, ALT and CK may vary depending on the specific methodologies employed by each laboratory. Elevated levels of AST and ALT may indicate liver damage, while increased CK values can result from intense physical exertion or muscle injury.
Conclusions. The results of the comparative analysis between the control and experimental groups confirm the hypothesis that antioxidant treatment has a significant impact on the activity of AST (TGO), ALT (TGP) and creatine kinase (CK) enzymes. This treatment has a protective effect on liver function and reduces muscle stress, with a more pronounced impact observed in female athletes.
Keywords: antioxidant supplementation, CK, biochemical parameters, elite soccer players.
