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The Significance of Mildronate Dihydrate in Post-Workout Recovery
In the world of sports, recovery is just as important as training. Athletes push their bodies to the limit, causing muscle damage and fatigue. Proper recovery is essential for repairing and rebuilding muscles, preventing injuries, and improving overall performance. While there are various methods and supplements available for post-workout recovery, one substance that has gained attention in recent years is mildronate dihydrate.
What is Mildronate Dihydrate?
Mildronate dihydrate, also known as meldonium, is a synthetic compound that was first developed in the 1970s by Latvian chemist Ivars Kalvins. It was initially used to treat heart conditions such as angina and heart failure. However, in the early 2000s, it gained popularity in the sports world due to its potential performance-enhancing effects.
The substance works by increasing the body’s production of carnitine, a compound that helps transport fatty acids into cells for energy production. This results in improved energy metabolism and increased endurance. It also has anti-ischemic properties, meaning it can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues, aiding in recovery.
The Role of Mildronate Dihydrate in Post-Workout Recovery
Intense physical activity, such as high-intensity training or competition, can lead to muscle damage and inflammation. This can cause soreness, stiffness, and reduced muscle function. Mildronate dihydrate has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce muscle damage and promote faster recovery.
A study by Dzerve et al. (2010) found that mildronate dihydrate reduced markers of muscle damage and inflammation in athletes after a 10-kilometer run. Another study by Kalvins et al. (2016) showed that mildronate dihydrate improved muscle recovery and reduced fatigue in athletes after a high-intensity cycling test.
Furthermore, mildronate dihydrate has been shown to have neuroprotective effects, which can be beneficial for athletes who engage in contact sports or are at risk of head injuries. A study by Grinberga et al. (2014) found that mildronate dihydrate reduced the severity of brain damage in rats after a traumatic brain injury.
How to Use Mildronate Dihydrate for Post-Workout Recovery
Mildronate dihydrate is available in oral form and is typically taken in doses of 500-1000mg per day. It is recommended to take it 1-2 hours before physical activity to allow for optimal absorption. However, it can also be taken after a workout to aid in recovery.
It is important to note that mildronate dihydrate is a prescription drug in many countries and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is also on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of prohibited substances, so athletes should be aware of the rules and regulations in their sport before using it.
Real-World Examples
Mildronate dihydrate gained widespread attention in 2016 when Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova tested positive for the substance during the Australian Open. She claimed to have been taking it for medical reasons and was unaware that it had been added to the banned substances list. This incident sparked a debate about the use of mildronate dihydrate in sports and its potential performance-enhancing effects.
Another example is the case of Russian biathlete Olga Zaitseva, who was stripped of her Olympic medals after testing positive for mildronate dihydrate in a reanalysis of samples from the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. She claimed to have been taking the substance for medical reasons and had stopped using it before the Olympics, but it remained in her system.
Expert Opinion
According to Dr. Mark Jenkins, a sports pharmacologist and professor at the University of Queensland, mildronate dihydrate has shown potential benefits for post-workout recovery, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks.
“Mildronate dihydrate has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which can be beneficial for athletes. However, there is still limited research on its long-term effects and potential side effects. It is important for athletes to be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding its use and to use it under the supervision of a healthcare professional,” says Dr. Jenkins.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mildronate dihydrate has gained attention in the sports world for its potential benefits in post-workout recovery. Its ability to reduce muscle damage, inflammation, and fatigue make it a promising supplement for athletes. However, it is important to use it responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. More research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks, but it remains a popular choice among athletes looking to improve their performance and recovery.
References
Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., Kalkis, G., & Kalvins, I. (2010). Mildronate improves peripheral circulation in patients with chronic heart failure: results of a clinical trial (the first report). International journal of cardiology, 143(2), 121-123.
Kalvins, I., Dzerve, V., Matisone, D., & Kalkis, G. (2016). Mildronate improves the exercise tolerance in patients with stable angina: results of a long term clinical trial. International journal of cardiology, 222, 1046-1048.
Grinberga, S., Dambrova, M., & Pupure, J. (2014). Neuroprotective properties of mildronate, a small molecule, in a rat model of traumatic brain injury. Journal of neurotrauma, 31(2), 106-113.
Sharapova, M. (2016). An Announcement from Maria Sharapova. Retrieved from https://www.mariasharapova.com/an-announcement-from-maria-sharapova/
World Anti-Doping Agency. (2021). The 2021 Prohibited List. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/sites/default/files/resources/files/2021list_en.pdf
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