Vol. 8, Issue 6 (2019)

Author(s):
Thongam Chanu Anel, M Sylvia Subapriya and T Inaobi Singh

Abstract:
The influence of supplementation of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. dry calyces drink was studied on Thang -Ta athletes from Manipur. Totally 30 athletes in the age group of 15-19 yrs doing regular practices and willing to participate in the study were selected. They were divided into two groups i.e experimental (E) and placebo group (P) (of 10 male and 5 female each). Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. drink (salted and sweetened with MTC) was supplemented at (240 ml) before and during practices for group E. Placebo group was provided 240 ml (of salted and sweetened with MTC) water. Physical fitness parameters i.e., 30 meter flying start test, standing broad jump, vertical jump, push- ups, sits ups, 6 X 10 meter shuttle run and VO₂ max were assessed through different intervals i.e. 0 days, 30^thdays, 60^thdays and 90^th days. Blood parameters i.e., Haemoglobin, glucose, serum ferritin and lactate dehydrogenase levels were analyzed. It was observed that no effect was found on vertical jump on both male and female athletes, during the entire periods. But, statistically significant improvement (p<0.05) was found on 30 meter flying start test, VO₂ max (P<0.05) in both the genders in group E. In group P there was beneficial to male athlete (sits up, push- ups, 30 meter fly and 6X10 meter shuttle run than female athletes. On biochemical parameters, blood Haemoglobin, was significantly improved (p<0.05), serum ferritin levels at (p<0.05) but serum lactate dehydrogenase decreased at (p<0.05) among group E male athletes. Among female (group E), Serum ferritin level alone improve at 5% level on 60^th and 90^th days of supplementation. From the results, it can be concluded that Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. juice improve performance as well as blood / serum parameters. Hence it can be used as/incorporated into many sports drinks to benefit the athletes.