Black Chokeberry and Bee Pollen for Athletes

Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between unstable free radicals and antioxidants, leading to cell and tissue damage, potentially increasing inflammation and the risk of chronic conditions. Intense physical activity generates high levels of free radicals, and antioxidant supplementation is often recommended for athletes.

A 2024 study in the journal Sports investigated whether oxidative stress could be managed by a combination of black chokeberry and bee pollen, a natural formulation with a balanced ratio of macro- and micronutrients rich in proteins and polyphenols.

The study divided 29 combat fighters into a supplementation group that consumed 40 grams of black chokeberry and bee pollen daily in a ratio of two-to-one for four weeks and a control group that received no supplementation. Although the supplementation group exhibited no significant changes in inflammatory markers, body composition, maximum aerobic capacity, glycemic index, hemoglobin or red blood cell line, they did demonstrate a statistically significant increase in plasma antioxidant capacity. The researchers concluded that the black chokeberry and bee pollen supplement was a good source of antioxidants, proteins and carbohydrates for an athlete’s diet.