Effect of New Zealand Blackcurrant Extract on Muscle Fibre-Specific Fatigue

SYNOPSIS: RESEARCHERS from the University of Chichester examined the effect of a week’s daily intake (600mg) of New Zealand blackcurrant extract on muscle fibre-specific fatigue. Twelve males performed a fatiguing protocol including voluntary and electrical isometric contractions to identify their predominant muscle figure type  and measure maximal muscle twitch responses.

The abstract, released at the European Conference of Sport Science in July, found:

• Individuals with Type 1 fibres (slow twitch) had an increased resistance to fatigue
• Individuals with Type 2 fibres (fast twitch) could produce 15% greater force during the initial stages of the 16-set contractions
• Blackcurrant may be beneficial for individuals performing high-intensity, repeated exercise and those undertaking endurance exercise modalities

To read the poster abstract, click here