In a placebo-controlled study involving 20 recreational marathon runners, results indicate that consumption of tart cherry juice may enable recovery following a marathon run. The subjects were assigned to consume cherry juice or placebo for 5 days before, the day of and for 48 hours following a marathon run. Isometric strength recovery was significantly faster in the cherry juice group, compared with the placebo group. Additionally, inflammation and TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive species) were reduced and total antioxidant status increased in the cherry juice group. Thus, the authors of this study conclude, “The cherry juice appears to provide a viable means to aid recovery following strenuous exercise by increasing total antioxidative capacity, reducing inflammation, lipid peroxidation and so aiding in the recovery of muscle function.”Reference: “Influence of tart cherry juice on indices of recovery following marathon running,” Howatson G, Howatson SA, et al, Scand J Med Sci Sports, 2009 Oct 21; [Epub ahead of print]. (Address: School of Psychology and Sport Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK).
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