Recent studies have shown that athletes, especially women, may be more at risk of poor folate intake and status.
Benefits of folate for athletes include:
• enhancing mental function and processing by increasing the production of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline, through 1 carbon metabolism. By adopting a nutritional approach that supports cognitive skills, athletes can gain a competitive edge, improve performance, and minimize the risk of injuries.
• regulating the metabolism of homocysteine (Hcy) can improve cardiac and cardiovascular functions, leading to better overall health. Physical activity is a key component of a healthy lifestyle and has been found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, the link between physical activity, blood folate, and homocysteine levels depends on the level and duration of exercise.
Intense endurance physical activity, such as a triathlon, can negatively affect Hcy levels (+Hcy) due to high folate consumption following exercise-induced metabolic demand. Folate is an essential regulator of the metabolism of homocysteine and contributes to maintaining normal plasma Hcy concentrations. Hcy is an amino acid commonly found in the blood, and its production is dependent on methionine metabolism in the monocarbon cycle.
Supplementing with Quatrefolic® has proven to be effective in lowering and normalizing homocysteine blood levels, supporting the nutritional status of athletes, and promoting cardiovascular health.
• Improvement in energy metabolism through its crucial role as a hematopoietic nutrient involved in Red Blood Cell (RBC) synthesis. RBCs are responsible for transporting oxygen (O2) from the lungs to the tissues and expelling metabolically produced CO2 through exhalation. A direct correlation exists between hemoglobin (Hb) blood levels and maximal O2 uptake (VO2max) in athletes. Higher Hb levels mean greater oxygen delivery to the tissues, which is essential for improving physical performance. Hematocrit, RBC volume and Hb concentration are the parameters used to evaluate O2 transport capacity.
Folate deficiency can impair physical performance by hampering RBC synthesis, leading to anemia and reduced endurance work performance. However, Quatrefolic® supplementation can help normalize homocysteine levels, boost VO2 max, and ensure optimal physical performance.
• Supporting myogenesis, or the formation of skeletal muscular tissue, and increased muscle blood flow, can lead to an increase in muscle growth and strength. These factors not only improve physical performance but also aid in muscle tissue regeneration after physical exercise.
