Effect of Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis) on exercise performance in healthy older subjects: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Chen S, Li Z, Krochmal R, Abrazado M, Kim W, Cooper CB
Published in Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
Abstract
Randomized, double-blind trial of 20 healthy elderly subjects (60-70 years). Cordyceps Cs-4 extract (333mg 3x daily) for 12 weeks significantly improved metabolic threshold, ventilatory threshold, and reduced exercise-induced oxidative stress. Enhanced oxygen utilization and cellular energy production. No adverse effects. Demonstrates anti-aging exercise performance benefits.
Methodology
Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with incremental cycle ergometry and gas-exchange measurement at baseline and 12 weeks.
Key Findings
In 20 healthy adults aged 50-75, Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis mycelium) 333 mg three times daily for 12 weeks raised the metabolic and ventilatory thresholds relative to placebo, while peak VO2 and peak workload did not differ significantly between groups.
Conclusions
Cordyceps Cs-4 may improve submaximal exercise tolerance in older adults without changing maximal aerobic capacity; the practical benefit is modest and limited by trial size.
Limitations
Very small sample, healthy volunteers only, single proprietary extract, and the primary maximal-capacity outcome was null — positive results were on secondary threshold measures.
Supplements Studied
In 20 healthy adults aged 50-75, Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis mycelium) 333 mg three times daily for 12 weeks raised the metabolic and ventilatory thresholds relative to placebo, while peak VO2 and peak workload did not differ significantly between groups.
Outcomes Measured
Cordyceps extract (1g daily) for 12 weeks significantly improved metabolic threshold, ventilatory threshold, and reduced exercise-induced oxidative stress in healthy elderly. Enhanced oxygen utilization.
Cordyceps extract (1g daily) for 12 weeks significantly improved metabolic and ventilatory thresholds in healthy elderly subjects. Demonstrates anti-aging exercise performance benefits.
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Supported by Pharmanex, the manufacturer of the Cs-4 product
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.