Amaranthus as a potential dietary supplement in sports nutrition

Abstract

Amaranthus is considered a superfood with high nutraceutical value. It is a functional food composed of bioactive compounds crucial for sports nutrition including secondary metabolites, tocopherols, sterols, squalene, trace elements, polyphenols, peptides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, proteins, fat, carbohydrates, fibers, minerals, and vitamins making it a versatile supplement source. Notably, it is rich in amino acids, including branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), natural enhancer of nitric oxide levels for improved circulation, endurance, strength, and stamina in athletes. It has been found to improve aerobic capacity, muscle recovery, and improved body composition. It is rich in fiber making it a beneficial prebiotic for athletes to maintain gastrointestinal health after intense training. Being rich in antioxidants and gluten-free, it’s ideal for special diets to reduce fat and increase muscle mass. A comprehensive overview of the ergogenic potential of Amaranthus and further research promises insights into developing Amaranthus-based dietary supplements for enhancing sports performance..

Keywords

• Amaranthus
• sports performance
• antioxidants
• functional food
• BCAAs
• prebiotic