Saskatoon Berry Juice for Muscle Recovery

This study will evaluated the effect of Saskatoon berry juice on recovery from muscle-damaging exercise.

Saskatoon berries are high in polyphenols which are are anti-inflammatory and act as anti-oxidants. They therefore have potential to protect muscle from damage induced by intense exercise. Thirty participants will be randomized to receive Sasaktoon berries (375 ml) or placebo every day for 10 days. On the seventh day participants will perform 6 sets of intense biceps curl exercise. Isometric muscle strength, muscle swelling, and muscle soreness will be assessed before exercise, immediately after exercise, and 24, 48, and 72 hours after the exercise session. We hypothesize the group receiving Saskatoon berries will have faster recovery of muscle strength, and reduction in swelling and muscle soreness after the exercise session.