運動科學研究所 Institute of Sports Sciences

　

Exercise and Free Radical Biology

According the ancient Chinese proverb “Work/exercise is an elixir of life”. Regular physical activity improves the health and quality of life. In the modern society, physical inactivity is one of the major risk for many metabolic diseases, which might be due to altered antioxidant defense and related systems. Decreased antioxidant system particularly in liver can cause liver damage and further leads to liver cirrhosis if continuously exposed to free radicals. We emphasize the importance of exercise training in improving the antioxidant status against various stress conditions. Previously we reported improved antioxidant capacity in the liver of aged alcohol treated rats with exercise training. In addition, our research also focused on herbal products supplementation to overcome from oxidative damage. Recently we found Panax ginseng extracts protects liver from exhaustive swimming-induced oxidative damage and improve antioxidant status. This orientation could help athletes to improve their body defense system against stress, which results after exhaustive performance.

Dr Mallikarjuna Korivi