Science-Backed Blackcurrant Benefits and Why It’s One of the Best Supplement Ingredients for an Active Lifestyle

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Science-Backed Blackcurrant Benefits and Why It’s One of the Best Supplement Ingredients for an Active Lifestyle

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are always on the lookout for supplements that can boost their performance. Among the different ingredients used for supplements, blackcurrant stands out for being one of the most scientifically vetted. Thanks to its promise, multiple studies have been conducted to understand exactly how this berry might benefit active individuals. So far, blackcurrants have been proven to be rich in antioxidants, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity, among many other benefits.

If you’re looking for something to add to your pre-workout routine, a blackcurrant supplement may just be exactly what you’re looking for. Here are some blackcurrant benefits that might help you reach your fitness goals faster.

1. Reduces Inflammation

Studies suggest that blackcurrants reduce joint and muscle damage, soreness, and inflammation. This is thanks to the gamma-linoleic acid (or GLA) found in blackcurrant seed oil, which is a type of omega-6 fatty acid that eases inflammation in the body. Adding a blackcurrant powder supplement to your pre-workout routine can speed up muscle recovery after your exercise session and ensure you’re back in top form soon after. GLA also eases joint pain and stiffness from arthritis, which could make regular exercise much easier for individuals with arthritis.

2. Supports Eye Health

A blackcurrant supplement added to one’s daily routine can support eye health and improve overall performance. This is because blackcurrants are rich in anthocyanins that are known for their antioxidant properties, helping increase blood flow through the optic nerve and micro-vessels, in the process, maintaining eye health and preventing eye conditions such as glaucoma. According to further research, the GLA and linoleic acid found in blackcurrants also help with eye fatigue and dry eye disease, making blackcurrant supplements a good choice for anyone looking to take care of their eyes.

3. Reduces Lactic Acid Buildup

Lactic acid is a byproduct of metabolism and is mostly produced during strenuous activities. It fuels your muscles with extra energy when doing intense physical activity, especially if your body isn’t getting enough oxygen to your muscles and other tissues. However, lactic acid buildup can contribute to fatigue and reduce power output. In the worst-case scenario, too much lactate accumulation can lead to lactic acidosis, a serious condition where the body’s pH levels become too acidic.

So, how does this tie into blackcurrants and their benefits? A study has previously proven that consuming blackcurrants or blackcurrant powder supplements reduces lactic acid buildup. Decreased lactic acid accumulation can reduce muscle fatigue, improve overall performance during exercise, and reduce the risk of lactic acidosis. If you exercise every day, taking a blackcurrant supplement before each workout can help you stay in top form and avoid painful soreness the following day.

4. Boosts Immune System

A stronger immune system enhances exercise performance by reducing inflammation, optimising energy use in muscles, and reducing post-exercise soreness. Blackcurrant supplements are high in antioxidants, including vitamin C, which can strengthen your immune system and allow your body to fight infection more effectively.

5. Supports Cardiovascular Health

A study has shown that regular intake of New Zealand blackcurrants reduces central arterial stiffness and central blood pressure, resulting in better cardiovascular health. Having a strong cardiovascular system improves endurance, reduces the risk of fatigue, and enhances muscle function. Beyond these basic benefits, blackcurrant intake may also reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease or stroke.

Blackcurrants also cause vasodilation, widening and relaxing of the blood vessels. This relaxation enhances blood flow, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. As a welcome bonus, it also helps with removing waste such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid, preventing fatigue during and after strenuous physical activity.

6. Sharpens Mental Focus

Your mental focus and cognitive function also play important roles when maintaining an active lifestyle. This is especially true for athletes who require fast reaction times and critical thinking skills, especially in high-pressure environments. Studies have shown that compounds found in New Zealand blackcurrants can enhance attention span, alertness, and overall cognitive function, possibly because of the way they boost blood flow into the brain. One particular study has indicated that blackcurrants reduce mental fatigue, allowing for sustained focus and concentration. If you’re an athlete, adding blackcurrant supplements to your pre-game routine may help you with your decision-making and problem-solving skills, giving you a welcome edge.

Blackcurrant Supplements Support Wellness in Both Active and Daily Life

Even though blackcurrant supplements have gained a reputation as an effective natural boost for active individuals, their benefits extend beyond the gym or the field. Taking blackcurrant supplements regularly may also help your immunity, heart health, vision, and cognitive function, improving many other aspects of your quality of life over the long term. If you’re looking to level up your active lifestyle with a supplement that delivers real results, blackcurrant might just be what you’ve been missing.