Paprika Xanthophylls Boost Endurance and May aid in Cognitive Function

A crossover trial in 21 college students tested whether paprika-derived xanthophylls (PXs), known antioxidants, enhance physical and mental performance. Compared to control, PX intake lowered heart rate and improved exercise efficiency in both incremental and constant load tests. While group-level differences in cognitive tests weren’t significant, PX users showed within-group improvements in executive function (Trail Making Test B, Stroop test). Researchers suggest PXs may support oxygen delivery by improving red blood cell flexibility, leading to better endurance and brain oxygenation. Findings are promising, mostly male sample.

Source: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/17/2780