Bioactive Plant Compounds and Exercise: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Applications Publisher



Lin S ; Jiang J ; Ren J ; Rezaei MJ
Source: Phytochemistry Reviews Published:2025

Abstract

Intense physical exercise induces oxidative stress, inflammation, and muscle damage, which can impair athletic performance and recovery. This comprehensive review synthesizes the current evidence on the molecular mechanisms and clinical efficacy of bioactive plant compounds in mitigating these physiological stressors. Analysis of the literature reveals that these compounds primarily exert protective effects by modulating key signaling pathways, such as activating the Nrf2 antioxidant response and inhibiting NF-κB-mediated inflammation. In human trials, specific compounds demonstrate clear benefits: bioavailable curcumin formulations (e.g., ~ 400 mg/day) and tart cherry anthocyanins are effective at reducing key markers of muscle damage (such as creatine kinase) and soreness, while beetroot juice (providing ~ 5–8 mmol of nitrate) consistently improves exercise efficiency and performance via the nitrate-nitric oxide pathway. In contrast, promising compounds like quercetin and resveratrol have yielded inconsistent results, a discrepancy largely attributed to poor oral bioavailability. The clinical utility of these compounds is therefore critically dependent on formulation and delivery methods. While plant-based bioactives represent a promising nutritional strategy for athletes, future research must prioritize large-scale, standardized trials to translate these findings into reliable, evidence-based recommendations. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.