Cordyceps Sinensis (CordyMax Cs-4) supplementation does not improve endurance exercise performance.
Parcell AC, Smith JM, Schulthies SS, Myrer JW, Fellingham G.
Human Performance Research Center at Brigham Young Uninversity, Provo, UT 84602, USA.
Abstract
It is purported that supplementation with Cordyceps Sinensis (CordyMax Cs-4) will improve oxidative capacity and endurance performance. The intent of this investigation was to examine the effects of CordyMax Cs-4 supplementation on VO<(2peak,) ventilatory threshold, and endurance performance in endurance-trained cyclists. Twenty-two male cyclists participated in 5 weeks of supplementation with CordyMax Cs-4 tablets (3 g/d). Training intensity was maintained by weekly documentation and reporting throughout the 5-week period. Subjects completed a VO(2peak) test and work-based time trial prior to and following the supplementation period. VO(2peak) was similar within and between placebo (PLA) and treatment (CS) groups prior to (59.9 +/- 5.9 vs. 59.1 +/- 5.4 ml/kg/min, respectively) and following (60.1 +/- 5.5 vs. 57.1 +/- 5.8 ml/kg/min, respectively) the supplementation period. Ventilatory threshold (VT) was measured at 72 +/- 10% of VO(2peak) in P and T prior to supplementation and did not change in either group following the supplementation. PLA completed the time trial in 61.4+/- 2.4 min compared to 62.1+/- 4.0 min in T. Time trial measurements did not differ between groups, nor did they change in response to supplementation. It is concluded that 5 weeks of CordyMax Cs-4 supplementation has no effect on aerobic capacity or endurance exercise performance in endurance-trained male cyclists.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15118196