Clinical Research Directory

Pre-workout Supplement, Arrhythmias and Exercise Stress Test

Pre-workout supplements are widely used by physically active individuals to enhance exercise performance. These products typically contain stimulant substances such as caffeine, beta-alanine, arginine, and tyrosine, which act on the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. Although their ergogenic effects are well established, their safety profile - particularly regarding cardiac arrhythmias during exercise - has not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to evaluate whether the acute ingestion of a commercially available multi-ingredient pre-workout supplement (V-FORT® ULTRA, Vitafor, Brazil) could trigger cardiac arrhythmias during a treadmill exercise stress test in young, physically active adults. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design was used. Participants underwent two exercise stress tests separated by 3 to 10 days: a familiarization test (Day 1) and an intervention test (Day 2), in which they received either the pre-workout supplement or a placebo beverage. Neither the participants nor the research team conducting the test were aware of the allocated intervention until after test completion.

Ecklonia Cava Supplementation and Cycling Performance

The goal of this clinical trial (randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study) is to investigate whether supplementation with Ecklonia cava, a natural extract derived from brown seaweed, affects exercise performance and physiological responses in trained cyclists. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does Ecklonia cava supplementation improve cycling performance, including power output during steady-state exercise and short maximal sprints? Does Ecklonia cava supplementation influence physiological responses to exercise, such as blood glucose, blood lactate, heart rate, and oxygen consumption? Researchers will compare Ecklonia cava supplementation to a placebo (a look-alike substance with no active ingredients) to determine whether the supplement has any effect on performance or physiological responses. In this crossover design, all participants will receive both the Ecklonia cava supplement and the placebo on separate occasions, with a washout period between conditions. Participants will: Ingest either Ecklonia cava or a placebo 30 minutes before exercise testing Complete a 60-minute cycling protocol at a moderate intensity Perform repeated short-duration maximal sprint efforts following the steady-state exercise Attend laboratory testing sessions under both supplement and placebo conditions Undergo measurements of physiological responses, including blood glucose, blood lactate, heart rate, oxygen consumption, and respiratory exchange ratio Have exercise performance assessed through measures of power output during cycling

Effects of Vitamin B12 and Natural Orange Extract, and Their Combination on Physical and Mental Performance

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a new formulation of vitamin B12, natural orange extract, and their combination on physical and mental performance.