Abstract

Background: The Indian spice fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) has been credited with numerous health benefits in cardiovascular disorders, metabolic syndrome, inflammatory conditions, glucose-insulin regulation, and sports performance. Previous studies from our laboratories demonstrated that fenugreek seed extract improved glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, augmented serum testosterone level and improved cardiovascular functions. Our investigation examined the efficacy of Furosap, a novel fenugreek seed extract enriched in 20% protodioscin, on exercise performance. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical study was conducted in forty healthy male athletes (n = 40) over a period of 12 consecutive weeks. Subjects were given either placebo or Furosap capsules (250 mg/day b.d.) and serum samples were used to assess serum total testosterone level and C-reactive proteins (CRP) at baseline and at the end of 12-weeks of treatment. Body fat mass, lean mass, fat mass, fat-free mass, grip strength, upper and lower body strength, maximal graded exercise stress using a digital hand dynamometer, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), force plate, and treadmill with open-circuit spirometry were assessed at the baseline and at the end of 12-weeks of treatment. Results: Furosap supplementation significantly increased mean lean body mass and fat-free mass compared to subjects receiving placebo. Additionally, Furosap-treated subjects elevated serum testosterone levels. Furosap supplemented subjects also exhibited a tendency towards lowering blood pressure during exhaustion. No adverse reports were reported. Conclusions: Given improvement of lean body mass and serum total testosterone following intervention with Furosap, Furosap likely has benefits for exercise endurance and sports medicine.

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