Spirulina supplementation prevents exercise-induced lipid peroxidation, inflammation and skeletal muscle damage in elite rugby players.

Background: The present study aimed to examine the effects of spirulina supplementation on pro/antioxidant status, inflammation and skeletal muscle damage markers immediately and 24 h after exhaustive exercise in elite rugby players.

Methods: Seventeen elite male Rugby Union players were randomly assigned to a spirulina (SPI: n = 9) or placebo (PLA: n = 8) group in a double-blind design. Subjects were supplemented with Spirulina platensis (5.

The Common Sunstar -A Neurotoxic Starfish.

Saxitoxins (STXs) are a family of potent neurotoxins produced naturally by certain species of phytoplankton and cyanobacteria which are extremely toxic to mammalian nervous systems. The accumulation of STXs in bivalve molluscs can significantly impact animal and human health. Recent work conducted in the North Sea highlighted the widespread presence of various saxitoxins in a range of benthic organisms, with the common sunstar () demonstrating high concentrations of saxitoxins.

Provides a Small Advantage in Vertical Jump and Sprint Performance But Does Not Improve Elite Rugby Players' Body Composition.

The present study aimed to examine the effects of supplementation on anthropometrical measurements and physical performance in elite rugby players. Twenty-two elite male Rugby Union players (21-36 years old) volunteered to participate in this study. They were randomly assigned to a group (SPI:  = 11), or a placebo group (PLA:  = 11) in a double-blind design.