Effects of exercise and quercetin on DNA integrity
As we age, our risk of illnesses like cancer and heart disease goes up. Exercise is known to help keep our bodies healthy by improving our DNA. This study wants to find out if intense exercise and a natural supplement called quercetin can help slow down ageing and protect our DNA in healthy men aged 30-45. Participants will do fitness tests, exercise, and take either quercetin or a dummy pill. We'll look at their blood samples to see the effects. The study aims to help us understand how to stay healthier for longer.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Many people know that as we get older, our bodies can become more prone to certain health problems, like cancer, heart disease, and brain issues. Scientists are interested in how our DNA, which is like the instruction manual for our body, changes over time and contributes to this ageing process. We also know that exercise can have a really positive impact on our health, and it seems to help our DNA stay in good shape.
This study is looking into whether high-intensity exercise, which involves short bursts of hard effort, and a natural plant-based supplement called quercetin, can help protect our DNA and slow down some of the ageing effects. Think of it like trying to keep your body's instruction manual in the best possible condition. The study is specifically focused on healthy men in their middle ages, between 30 and 45 years old.
The main goal is to understand how these two things – exercise and quercetin – might work together or separately to keep our DNA healthy. By understanding this better, researchers hope to find new ways to help people stay well and reduce their risk of common diseases as they get older. It's all about exploring ways to support a healthy body and mind for longer.
Key takeaways
- Looking for healthy men aged 30-45 in the UK or Ireland.
- Investigating how exercise and a natural supplement (quercetin) affect DNA and ageing.
- Involves fitness tests, high-intensity exercise, blood samples, and taking either quercetin or a dummy pill.
- Participation lasts about 7 weeks of active involvement.
- Aims to understand how to promote healthier ageing.
- Run by Ulster University Belfast.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for healthy men between the ages of 30 and 45. To be eligible, you should be living in the UK or Ireland. The researchers are looking for people who are generally active but not professional athletes or extremely fit, as this could affect the results. You should also be at a healthy weight.
There are also some things that would mean you can't take part. For example, you shouldn't be a smoker or drink a lot of alcohol (more than 14 units a week). If you work night shifts, have a long-term illness like heart disease or diabetes, or are currently taking medication that could interfere with exercise, you wouldn't be able to join. Your diet is also a factor – if you're vegan, you wouldn't be suitable for this particular study.
The main idea is to find men who are generally healthy and whose bodies would likely respond clearly to the exercise and supplement without other factors complicating the results.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am a man between 30 and 45 years old.
- I live in the UK or Ireland.
- I am generally healthy, not an athlete, and not taking regular medication.
- I am a non-smoker, don't drink excessively, and don't work night shifts.
- I am an omnivore (eat meat and vegetables) and not on a vegan diet.
What does participation involve?
If you join the study, you'll first visit Ulster University Belfast for some initial tests. This will involve measuring your height, weight, and how fit you are. Afterwards, you'll take part in some high-intensity exercise sessions. The researchers will take blood samples before and after these exercise sessions, and also after you've been taking the supplement.
You will then be asked to take either the quercetin supplement (1000 mg daily) or a dummy pill (placebo) for three weeks. After this, you'll have a one-week break, and then you'll switch to the other treatment for another three weeks. So, if you had the quercetin first, you’d then have the dummy pill, and vice versa. The total time you'd be actively involved in the treatments and tests would be around seven weeks in total, plus the initial visits and follow-ups. All parts of the study are carried out at Ulster University Belfast.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of UlsterCity onlyBelfast, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is quercetin?
Quercetin is a natural substance found in many fruits, vegetables, and grains. It's often studied for its potential health benefits.
What is 'high-intensity exercise'?
This type of exercise involves short periods of very hard physical effort, followed by brief rests. It's designed to push your body more than typical moderate exercise.
Will I know if I'm taking quercetin or the dummy pill?
No, you won't know at the time. This is standard in research to ensure the results are unbiased. The researchers will know after the study is finished.
How long will the study last for me?
Your active participation, including treatments and tests, will last for about seven weeks, plus initial visits. The overall study runs until May 2025.
Do I need to be very fit to join?
No, not extremely fit. They are looking for men who are generally active but not highly trained athletes, as this helps them see clearer results.
How to find out more
Ciara Juan
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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