Scientists are hailing a new study showing the ‘impressive’ gut-protecting effects of blackcurrant extract, as a new go-to for relief against the dreaded ‘Runner’s Trots’, which affects runners when exercising in the heat. The supplement reduced symptoms in over two-thirds of the recreationally active runners tested, all of whom were unaccustomed to running in the heat. Runners and scientists alike say the discovery is "an extremely valuable prevention strategy for those of us running in the heat” and a new means to gain an “extra few percent” in performance too.
Heat-induced gastric stress, which affects 90% of sports enthusiasts, whether a professional athlete, weekend warrior or Parkrun fan, is one of the biggest issues for people running in the heat. Current prevention strategies are limited to multiple weeks of complex heat acclimation training, which is impractical and inaccessible for those enjoy running recreationally. But a new study has found that a runner’s berry extract supplement made from blackcurrants, provided ‘impressive’ protection against exertional heat stress by enhancing barrier function and reducing total gastric distress symptoms in 73% of runners, compared to a placebo.
The polyphenol-rich supplement suppressed heat-induced cell damage and ‘leaky gut’ by up to 40% and reduced the body’s stress response. Exertional heat stress is caused by exercising in high temperatures, which causes blood to be redistributed away from the .
