Exploring the Effects of Cordyceps on Exercise Performance in Older Adults

In the realm of natural supplements, Cordyceps has been gaining increased attention for its apparent benefits ranging from boosting energy, stamina and athletic performance to increasing libido and sex drive. A particularly relevant study, published in the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" in 2010, sought to explore these claims by investigating the effects of Cordyceps sinensis on exercise performance in older adults. This blog post delves into the details of the study, its setup, results, and the primary takeaways. Although the study is over 10 years old from the writing of this blog post, the results were significant and impactful enough for us to want to highlight.

Study Overview

The study was designed as a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, a gold standard in clinical research, to ensure reliability and objectivity of the results. It aimed to evaluate whether supplementation with Cordyceps sinensis could improve tolerance to high-intensity exercise in older adults. The participants included a group of healthy male and female volunteers, aged 50 to 75 years, who were not regularly engaged in high-intensity physical activity.

Methodology

Participants were randomly divided into two groups. One group received a daily supplement of 333 mg of Cordyceps sinensis powder (in capsule form), while the control group received a placebo. The participants were taking the capsules 3 times a day for 12 weeks. Prior to the start of the supplementation and at the end of the study period, all participants underwent a series of exercise tests to measure their baseline and post-consumption exercise performance.

These tests were primarily focused on aerobic capacity (VO2 max) and endurance. VO2 max, or maximal oxygen uptake, is widely accepted as the gold standard for measuring cardiovascular fitness and aerobic endurance. The tests were conducted using cycle ergometers, machines that simulate the exercise of cycling indoors.

Results

The study's findings were significant in highlighting the potential benefits of Cordyceps sinensis in improving exercise performance among older adults. Participants who received Cordyceps supplements showed a noticeable improvement in their VO2 max compared to those who received the placebo. Specifically, the improvement indicated enhanced ability to utilize oxygen during high-intensity exercise, which is a critical factor in sustaining physical activity and overall fitness.

In addition to this, the Cordyceps group also demonstrated increased time to fatigue, meaning they were able to perform strenuous exercise for longer periods before reaching exhaustion. This is particularly relevant for older adults, as endurance and the ability to perform daily activities without rapid tiring are crucial for maintaining independence and quality of life.

From the study itself: "After receiving Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis) for 12 weeks, the metabolic threshold (above which lactate accumulates) increased by 10.5% from 0.83 +/- 0.06 to 0.93 +/- 0.08 L/min (p < 0.02) and the ventilatory threshold (above which unbuffered H(+) stimulates ventilation) increased by 8.5% from 1.25 +/- 0.11 to 1.36 +/- 0.15 L/min. Significant changes in metabolic or ventilatory threshold were not seen for the subjects in the placebo group after 12 weeks, and there were no changes in Vo(2) max in either group."

Discussion

The results of this study suggest that Cordyceps sinensis has the potential to improve aerobic capacity and endurance in older adults, which can translate to better health and enhanced quality of life. The mechanisms behind these effects are thought to involve a combination of improved blood flow, enhanced cellular energy (ATP production), improved oxygen utilization, and possibly anti-inflammatory effects that reduce metabolic stress during exercise.

Conclusion

This study offers valuable insights into the potential health benefits of Cordyceps sinensis supplements. These findings contribute to a growing body of evidence supporting the use of Cordyceps in enhancing physical performance and overall well-being in older adults.