The effect of 4 weeks of bromelain supplementation on inflammatory indices after supermaximal weightlifting exercises

Super Maximal has been considered as a method for enhancing the athletic performance of sportspeople; however, it can lead to injury, muscle fatigue, and increased serum enzyme concentrations, which come with side effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 4 weeks of bromelain supplementation on inflammatory markers following maximal weightlifting exercises.

The research was conducted using a pre-test and post-test design. The population and statistical participants of this research consisted of 11 female weightlifters with 3 to 5 years of training experience (age, weight and body mass index:  22 ± 7.5 years, 65 ± 8.5 kg and 24 ± 2.3) respectively. A sample was selected from the chosen weightlifting club in the city of Rasht, and consent forms were obtained from all participants. This study was conducted in four stages: (Stage One: 48 hour after normal training; Stage Two: 12 hours after supermaximal, followed by 30 days of bromelain supplementation+normal training; Stage Three: 12 hours after supermaximal, followed by 30 days of placebo plus normal training; Stage Four: 12 hours after supermaximal). In this study, blood samples were obtained for measurement of (white blood cell counts, serum IL-6 and LDH). For statistical analysis, ANOVA was used in SPSS version 26 with a p<0.05.

The findings showed 4 weeks of bromelain supplementation had a significant reducing effect on serum IL-6 levels after supermaximal weightlifting exercises (P < 0.05), But it had no significant effect on other components.

Supermaximal exercises lead to significant inflammation; bromelain is likely one of the substances that influence this process. Based on the results of this study, bromelain could be used to manage inflammation levels in athletes.