Short-term Effects of Pomegranate and Barberry Juice Consumption on Hemodynamic Parameters, and Blood Acidosis Following Force-Velocity Based Exercises in Male Athletes

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Exercise Physiology Department, , Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Science, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran

2 Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

The effects of using the combined supplement of pomegranate and barberry juice and the impact of the exercise sequence on hematological, hemodynamic, and acidity responses during and after sports preparation remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the responses of hematology, hemodynamics, and acidity to the sequence of intense anaerobic-resistance exercises after consuming the combined supplement of pomegranate and barberry juice in athletes. A total of 12 athletes, (average age of 24.33 ± 0.778 y, height of 169.75 ± 11.08 cm, weight of 66.93 ± 11.71 kg) participated in a double-blind crossover design, receiving either the combined supplement (220 mL of pomegranate and barberry juice) or a placebo in four separate trials. The exercise protocol included resistance-anaerobic exercises, performed sequentially in four different trials. The exercise protocol included anaerobic-resistance exercises, performed sequentially in four trials with different orders: power, velocity, and strength with supplement and placebo; power, strength, and velocity with supplement and placebo. The results showed that in all four trials, the consumption of the combined pomegranate and barberry juice supplement led to a significant decrease in MCHC (P = 0.007) and an increase in respiratory rate (P = 0.024) compared to the placebo. Although no significant differences were observed in hematological markers (HCT, MCH, HGB, WBC, LYM, PLT) between the groups, significant intra-group changes were found for each variable (P < 0.05). In terms of hemodynamic indicators (HR, SBP, DBP, MAP, SaO2, BR), no significant differences were found between the trials, but significant intra-group changes were noted (P < 0.05). Similarly, no significant changes were observed in the acidity markers (LA, pH, HCO3-) between the groups, but significant intra-group differences were present (P < 0.05). The findings of this study indicate that the Consumption of pomegranate and barberry juice supplement improves athletic performance and reduces metabolite accumulation. Additionally, the order of exercises affects physiological responses. These findings highlight the importance of supplementation and proper exercise sequencing in minimizing the negative effects of anaerobic training.

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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 02 September 2025
  • Receive Date: 16 April 2025
  • Revise Date: 09 August 2025
  • Accept Date: 02 September 2025