Thursday, June 25, 2009

Fruit skins instead of exercise?


Good news for those who don't get enough exercise: A human-based study by U of South Carolina researchers shows that quercetin, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound found in the skins of red apples, red onions, berries and grapes significantly boosts endurance and maximal oxygen capacity (VO2max) in men and women. Details to appear in the June 24 online issue of the International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism. Researchers cite quercetin's ability to boost the immune system and increase mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cell) in muscle and brain. Here's the study.