Aims: 

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are continuously produced as a part of metabolic processes. Intense physical activity is thought to increase the production of ROS, associated with depletion of antioxidant balance. The purpose of the study was to compare the oxidative stress in two groups of sportmen: with and without antioxidants supplemented diet.

Method: 

We measured the levels of MDA (malondialdehyde), PC (protein carbonyl) and CER (ceruloplasmin) in 21 soccer players that received mixture of antioxidants (vitamin E, vitamin C, selenium, etc) in huge amounts (group A), and 30 soccer players with no antioxidant supplementation (group B). We compared them to a group of 25 blood donors that do not make systematic exercise. We mention that group A sportsmen play in the first league, but the results were poor, and group B play in the second league.

Results: 

MDA concentrations were considerably increased only in a group B compared to the control (p < 0.001). PC levels were increased on both groups, but more significant in a group B (group A p = 0.02, group B p < 0.001). CER levels were decreased in a group A (p < 0.01). Both soccer ball teams had an oxidative stress. In a group A it is reflected by the high concentration of CP and reduced levels of CER. Group B showed considerably increased levels of MDA and PC, but the concentration of CER is similar to the control group.

Conclusion: 

Exercise produces an imbalance between ROS and antioxidants. Antioxidant supplementation reduced oxidative stress, but did not significantly improve the sport performance of the team.