In December 2018 researchers from Italy and Switzerland assessed the effects of the G3 Sports supplement drink on the performance and endurance in amateur athletes during 2 weeks of training for a triathlon. G3 is a fruit juice blend high in carotenoid compounds as well as 100 mg of standardized French oak (Quercus robur) wood extract, Robuvit®, per 50 mL bottle. It was thought that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions of the compounds in G3 may improve training efficiency (decreasing post-triathlon muscular pain, cramps and improve recovery time) and decrease post-training free radicals. A total of 50 healthy individuals, aged 30-40 years, were involved in the study. The individuals were divided into two groups, with 25 using the supplement and 25 not. The two groups were comparable with respect to triathlon performances and age distribution as well as their drinking and training practices. During the study period each individual followed their normal diet and took no sports supplements, although it was suggested that a rehydrating drink should be used. Those not using the G3 sports drink were also allowed to use Gatorade. Markers of oxidative stress, measured as level of free radicals, as well as levels of haemoglobin, ferritin, bilirubin and lactate dehydrogenase were assessed at both the start and end of the study period. Results showed that all triathlon performances improved across the two groups. However, the time improvement achieved was seen to be significantly greater following the G3 sports drink. A further analysis revealed that the blood tests, which were normal at the start of the study, were also normal after the final triathlon. There were no significant changes in haemoglobin or ferritin in both groups although those consuming the G3 sports drink had lower variations in bilirubin and lactase dehydrogenase when compared to the other group. Oxidative stress, which was assessed 1 hour after the final run, was also higher in those not using the G3 sports drink. The researchers suggested that this may be associated to a slower recovery time after training and after the test run. No side effects or tolerance problems were experienced by those using the G3 sports drink.
Belcaro G et al. G3 sports supplement in short triathlon: improvements in training, performance, recovery and oxidative stress. Minerva Med. 2018 Dec;109(6):451-456.