Capsaicinoid and Capsinoids as an Ergogenic Aid: A Systematic Review and the Potential Mechanisms Involved.

International journal of sports physiology and performance
Q1
Dec 2021
Citations:18
Influential Citations:3
Systematic Reviews / Meta-Analyses
87
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Methods
Humans: physically active men and recreationally trained runners; study designs included randomized, double-blind trials (some) and cross-over/parallel designs; sample sizes ranged roughly 10–41; interventions spanned acute single-dose to short-term (up to 7 days) supplementation.
Intervention
Oral supplementation with capsaicinoids (capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin) and capsinoids (capsiate). Acute regimens included single-dose administration prior to exercise (commonly 12 mg capsaicin or 12 mg capsiate; 1.2 mg chewable capsaicin; timing ~30–60 minutes before exercise). A chronic regimen used capsaicin at 25.8 mg/day for 7 days. Delivery formats included capsules or chewables; populations included physically active men and recreationally trained runners.
Results
Acute CAP supplementation can modestly enhance endurance and some resistance-exercise performance in physically active adults, depending on dose and protocol. In humans, 3 of 8 studies showed significant acute endurance benefits and 2 showed acute resistance benefits, while several reported no benefit. Overall, CAP appears to be a promising ergogenic strategy, but effects are protocol-dependent and evidence is not yet robust. Chronic dosing data are limited, and high-dose regimens may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. More high-quality, varied trials across sexes and exercise modalities are needed to confirm efficacy and mechanisms.
Limitations
Small sample sizes in human trials; heterogeneity of CAP formulations (capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin, capsiate), doses, and delivery methods; mostly acute exposure with limited long-term data; variable populations with limited female representation; some regimens associated with GI discomfort at higher doses; risk of bias in included studies; mechanistic conclusions remain tentative.

Abstract

CONTEXT Capsaicinoids and capsinoids (CAP) are natural substances found primarily in chili peppers and other spicy foods that agonize the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 in the mouth, stomach, and small intestine. Several studies have shown ...