The effect of physical activity and red dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) in red blood cell and hemoglobin in trained people

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Physical fitness depends on hematological parameters such as red blood cells and hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is needed in adequate quantities in trained athletes, especially in endurance sports. The effects of antioxidant supplementation are not yet fully known whether the body’s natural antioxidants that act as a defense system can overcome the increase in free radicals during physical exercise or whether additional supplements are needed. AIM: The purpose of this study was to find out the effect of physical activity and consumption of red dragon fruit on red blood cells and hemoglobin in trained people. METHODS: The subject of the study was 20 people, male, trained, divided into two groups randomly, each consisting of 10 people, namely, Group 1 (PA): A group that was given physical exercise and obtained a placebo; Group 2 (PA+RDF): A group was assigned physical activity and given red dragon fruit juice. Physical activity was performed in the form of treadmill exercises with an intensity of 80–85% of the maximum heart rate (MHR= 220 – age), frequency 3 times a week, duration 30 min, for 28 days. RESULTS: The results show that the increase in red blood cells and hemoglobin after intervention in PA+RDF group is higher than in the PA group, but based on statistic test, there is no significant difference to increase in red blood cells and hemoglobin between the two groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The physical activity and red dragon fruit can prevent the decrease of red blood cells and hemoglobin in trained people.