Effects of date extract ingestion on high-intensity cycling performance

High-intensity exercise requires substantial energy, often resulting in exhaustion and reduced performance. Fatigue during exercise can stem from various factors, including energy depletion, accumulation of lactic acid, neurological impairments, and psychological influences. Dates (Phoenix dactylifera Linn) are a rich source of glucose and bioactive compounds, making them potential components of energy bars designed to enhance performance. This study investigated the anti-fatigue and performance-enhancing effects of date extract during intensive cycling activities. The research used a crossover design, enrolling eight male trained inline skaters with a mean age of 19.13 (0.35) years. These individuals regularly engaged in skating sessions lasting over 1.5 h at least three days a week and had prior experience in competitive events. The participants engaged in two separate high-intensity cycling sessions: one involving date extract ingestion (1 g/kg body weight, consumed 15 min before exercise commencement) and one without. A two-day washout period separated these sessions. Blood glucose levels exhibited a significant increase 15 min after date extract ingestion (pre-exercise: 90.38 (12.93) mg/dL vs. 15-min post 124.63 (25.12) mg/dL; p = 0.002). However, blood glucose levels at the end of exercise were comparable between both conditions. Notably, blood lactate levels increased in both groups, but these values were not significantly different. Performance during high-intensity cycling was significantly enhanced in the group that consumed date extract. Both duration (794.75 (74.89) s vs. 699.88 (84.82) s; p = 0.033) and distance (8,003.72 (784.48) m vs. 6,961.3 (1,036.7) m; p = 0.04) were greater compared to those in the control group, while power and speed remained unaffected. Notably, the maximum rate of perceived exertion was reached at a more advanced stage of high-intensity exercise by the participants in the intervention group compared to those in the control group. These findings suggest that date extract ingestion improves glucose availability for energy production, delays the onset of exercise-induced fatigue, and enhances performance during high-intensity exercise.