10/01/97 Study Says Ginseng Supplements Do Not Enhance Aerobic Performance

Study Says Ginseng Supplements Do Not Enhance Aerobic Performance

Men who think ginseng supplements will boost their performance on the playing field and in the gym could be wrong, according to a study in the October issue of the Journal of The American Dietetic Association (JADA).

The study found that ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) supplementation at the clinically recommended dose (200 mg per day), as well as twice that level, did not improve aerobic work capacity or oxygen use.

Although the study's authors acknowledge that available research is still incomplete and inconsistent, their findings contradict previous studies done with elite athletes which have suggested that ginseng supplementation has beneficial effects on oxygen use and aerobic exercise performance. The authors add, however, that it is not clear at present whether a person's athletic training status or aerobic capacity level are important variables that may affect the response to ginseng.

Sports nutrition experts who work with athletes have seen a surge in ginseng's popularity, but have noted the lack of scientific research in support of the herbs' claims for effectiveness. Georgia Tech Athletic Association nutrition consultant and registered dietitian Chris Rosenbloom, Ph.D., R.D., says, "Many claims are made about ginseng and its effects on everything from athletic performance to memory, but few human studies have shown true benefits."

Some believe ginseng, an herbal plant used for hundreds of years in Asia for treatment of various ailments, improves oxygen use and increases aerobic performance. Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, also referred to as Chinese or Korean ginseng, is said to be the most popular species.

Participants in the study by Engels and Wirth were 36 healthy men who maintained their usual physical activity level and diet regimen throughout the eight-week trial. According to Rosenbloom, the study design is important because average healthy adults, such as the study's subjects, not elite athletes, are most likely to use ginseng supplements because of its advertised claims to increase aerobic performance.

Rosenbloom adds, "So far, there are no shortcuts to physical and athletic ability. A good eating plan along with regular aerobic and strength training are the tried-and-true ways to optimal health and physical fitness."

The American Dietetic Association recommends that individuals consult with their physician and registered dietitian before taking supplements. Referrals to registered dietitians specializing in sports nutrition and performance are available through ADA's Consumer Nutrition Hot Line, 800/366-1655, weekdays, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (CT). Dietitian referrals and information about sports nutrition and supplements are available on-line.

The Chicago-based American Dietetic Association is the nation's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals with nearly 70,000 members. ADA members serve the public through the promotion of optimal nutrition, health and well-being.

Published monthly, The Journal of The American Dietetic Association brings original research, critical reviews and reports, authoritative information and expert commentary to nutrition and dietetics professionals throughout the world.

Media Contact:
M. Johnna Thomas and Wen Huang
E-mail: media@eatright.org
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