Effects of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Soccer Performance Under Fatigue

Overview

This study aims to investigate the effects of four-week astaxanthin supplementation on soccer-specific performance under fatigue in soccer players. Using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, participants were assigned to receive either astaxanthin or placebo for 4 weeks. After the supplementation period, participants completed an exhaustive exercise protocol followed by assessments of soccer-specific performance, neuromuscular function, and fatigue-related responses. The study is designed to determine whether astaxanthin supplementation can attenuate fatigue-related declines in performance and improve recovery-related outcomes in soccer players.

Soccer is characterized by repeated high-intensity efforts, rapid changes of direction, technical execution, and decision-making under physically demanding conditions. Fatigue induced by exhaustive exercise may impair neuromuscular performance, technical skills, and cognitive function. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid with antioxidant properties and has been suggested to help reduce exercise-related oxidative stress and fatigue. However, evidence regarding its effects on soccer-specific performance under fatigue remains limited. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of four-week astaxanthin supplementation on soccer-specific performance, neuromuscular function, and fatigue-related biomarkers under exhaustive exercise conditions in soccer players. This study used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel design. Eligible soccer players were assigned to either an astaxanthin supplementation group or a placebo group for 4 weeks. After the intervention period, participants completed a standardized exhaustive exercise protocol to induce fatigue. Outcome assessments were then performed to evaluate soccer-specific performance and fatigue-related responses. The primary objective was to determine whether astaxanthin supplementation could reduce fatigue-related performance decline. Secondary objectives were to examine its effects on neuromuscular function and selected fatigue-related physiological responses. The findings of this study may help clarify the potential role of astaxanthin supplementation as a nutritional strategy to support performance maintenance under fatigue in soccer players.