Measurement of oxidative stress levels and some antioxidant activities in muaythai athletes using turmeric extract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of turmeric extract supplementation on oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzyme activities in Muay Thai athletes. While it is well-established that physical activity can elevate oxidative stress, turmeric—a natural antioxidant—may modulate this response. The research was conducted using an experimental design involving 44 male participants aged 18–25, divided into four groups: (1) Muay Thai athletes (control group), (2) Muay Thai athletes supplemented with 400 mg/day of turmeric extract (experimental group), (3) sedentary individuals (control group), and (4) sedentary individuals receiving the same dose of turmeric extract (experimental group).Prior to blood sampling, all participants underwent a three-day rest period, and the athletic groups completed a 28-day progressive training program. Blood samples were collected on days 1 and 28. Spectrophotometric analyses were performed to assess malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. The results indicated a significant reduction in MDA levels and a significant increase in GSH levels among the turmeric-supplemented athlete group. Although the increase in CAT activity was not statistically significant, an upward trend was observed. In the sedentary turmeric group, MDA levels significantly decreased, CAT activity significantly increased, and GSH levels showed a non-significant yet positive trend. These findings suggest that turmeric extract may be effective in mitigating exercise-induced oxidative stress and enhancing antioxidant defense mechanisms, even in sedentary individuals. Furthermore, physical activity alone appears to strengthen the antioxidant defense system, and this effect may be potentiated by turmeric supplementation. Keywords: Turmeric Extract, Muaythai, Oxidative Stress, Antioxidant Activity, Free Radicals.