Human Clinical Supports Glisodin Melon Extract for Sports

Glisodin, a plant superoxide dismutase (SOD) extract derived from melon (Cucumis melo LC), has shown to exhibit positive effects on selected inflammatory markers in a new human clinical study published in The International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism. The announcement was made by P.L. Thomas (Morristown, NJ), which markets the ingredient. Glisodin is an ingredient of Isocell S.A. (Paris).

The double-blind study involved 19 members of the Polish National Rowing Team. Subjects were randomly assigned to take 500 mg of Glisodin extract once daily for six weeks, or placebo. At the beginning and end of the study, subjects performed a 2000-meter rowing ergometer test. Blood samples were taken before each test, one minute after test completion, and again after a 24-hour rest period.

Researchers found that SOD activity was significantly higher in the supplemented group during all tests, and post-exercise C-reactive protein was significantly lower. They concluded that the supplementation promoted antioxidant status and protected against increased inflammation.

“The present trial confirms the findings of previous studies demonstrating the benefits of Glisodin for lessening inflammation resulting from strenuous exercise,” stated Francois Vix, president of Isocell. He adds that C-reactive protein is a measure of muscle inflammation.

Glisodin has also been studied for its immune-health benefits.