The use of Pycnogenol in sports

 

Athletic performance always creates an oxidative stress on the body resulting in the rise of metabolic activity. This increased metabolism is the result of a 10 to 20 fold increase in the intake of oxygen. Professional athletes and bodybuilders make up for the increased oxidative stress through the production of anti-oxidative secretions in the form of enzymes, protecting the body cells against damaging free radicals. This process is actually performed by Pycnogenol to prevent the damage of bodily cells due to excessive workout routines. Research investigations have shown the effects of this supplement to increase endurance levels during recreational activities protecting the cells from harmful radicals and aiding in better performance.

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Pycnogenol – The King of Anti-oxidants

Several research studies have been conducted over the years to establish the beneficial effects of anti-oxidants. Out of the available options that are used as an anti-aging supplement Pycnogenol turns out to be a trustworthy and effective compound in countering problems of premature skin aging. Extensive research work on this supplement has proved the powerful effects of this antioxidant to provide significant results on rejuvenating the skin when taken topically or even orally.  This super antioxidant is 50 times more effective than Vitamin E and 20 times more effective than Vitamin C in fighting free radicals and maintaining a healthy skin.

In addition to the anti-oxidation benefit of Pycnogenol its exhibition of anti-inflammatory properties aids in supporting microcirculation. The active anti-aging ingredients in such compound help to protect the skin from the harmful ultra-violet rays of the sun preventing premature aging of the skin through photo-aging. It counters the effects of chronic inflammation, sun damage, smog, damaging free radicals and pollution. This extract is extensively used in wrinkle and anti-aging creams to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidation.

The right concentration of Pycnogenol in skin cream

Like other active anti-aging ingredients, the right concentration of this herbal extract is essential in combating anti-aging problems. This ingredient must be included in sufficient quantity in skin products in order to be effective for protection of the skin. Just claiming the presence of such ingredients in the skin care products by manufacturers won’t serve its purpose. Out of the various ant-aging products available in the market, very few of them contain the right amount of this compound because of it being quite expensive.

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Although there is no pre-specified level of this compound to be included for topical applications, the recommended amount to be used in skin-care products and serums should range between 0.1% and 0.2% in order to be used as an anti-aging supplement. The easiest way to detect the appropriate content of this active- ingredient in the skin care product is by taking a look at the color. The color of the original extract being brown should provide a brownish appearance to the skin cream or serum that contains it. Any product that claims to contain this ingredient but does not provide a brown look has an insignificant presence of this compound. The ingredients label printed on the package should also have its name enlisted there.