Angiotensin-(1-7) oral formulation improves physical performance in mountain bike athletes: a double-blinded crossover study

Abstract Objective This study examined the effects of HPβ-CD-Ang-(1–7) oral supplement on performance of mountain bike (MTB) athletes. Methods Fourteen recreational athletes, involved in training programs for at least one year, participated in this crossover design study. Subjects underwent two days of testing with a seven-day interval. HPβ-CD-Ang-(1–7) (1.75 mg) and HPβCD-Placebo were provided in capsules three hours prior to tests. To determine the safety of the HPβ-CD-Ang-(1–7) formulation associated with physical effort, cardiovascular parameters heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) were analyzed. Physical performance was measured using maximal oxygen uptake (VO2), total exercise time (TET), mechanical work (MW), mechanical efficiency (ME), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Respiratory exchange coefficient (REC), lactate and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) were measured. Maximal incremental tests were performed on a progressively loaded leg cycle ergometer. Results There were no significant differences in terms of HR or BP at rest and maximum effort between the Ang-(1–7) and placebo groups. The VO2max showed significant differences (p = 0.04). It was higher in the Ang-(1–7)condition (66.15 ml/kg/min) compared to the placebo (60.72 ml/kg/min). This was also observed for TET (Ang-(1–7) 39.10 min vs. placebo 38.14 min; p = 0.04), MW (Ang-(1–7) 156.7 vs. placebo 148.2; p = 0.04), and at the lowest RPE (Ang-(1–7) vs. placebo; p = 0.009). No significant differences were observed for REC, NEFAs, or Lactate. Conclusion These results suggest that HPβ-CD-Ang-(1–7) improves the physical performance of MTB recreational athletes and could be a promising supplement.