Endothelial dysfunction and microcirculation disorder in young athletes as a manifestation of overexertion syndrome: methods of assessment and correction with specialized products based on apiculture components

Introduction . Health problems, the high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, «early sports specialization» and frequent borderline changes in the cardiovascular system in young athletes are of particular interest to specialists. The problem of using specialized food products (SFP) for athletes of young age has not been resolved either. Objective . Assessment of the state of the brachial artery (BA) endothelium, eye sclera microvessels, blood parameters and performance of young athletes before and after a course of SFP based on apiculture components. Materials and methods . In 40 Olympic reserve athletes (16.1±0.4 years) were tested for reactive hyperemia and hyperventilation to assess flow-dependent vasodilatation (FDVD), constriction (FDVC), biomicroscopy of the sclera, spiroergometry, general and biochemical blood tests. Results . All athletes were found to have endothelial dysfunction (ED) of BA in the form of a violation of the FDVD, FDVC, an increase in the neurovegetative tension index (TI), cortisol and microcirculation spasm. After a course of SFP (honey bar), FDVD increased by 96% (p=0.0001), FDVC decreased by 2 times (p=0.0001), TI decreased by 40% (p=0.0001), and microvascular spasm by 65% (p=0.0001). Protein, red blood cells, hemoglobin, minerals and performance increased, while total cholesterol, triglycerides, cortisol and urea decreased. Conclusion . A decrease in FDVD, an increase in FDVC, high TI, increased cortisol and microcirculation spasm are manifestations of the overexertion syndrome in young athletes, which forms a spastic type of regional blood circulation, limiting performance and creating preconditions for the development of arterial hypertension. SFP in the form of a honey bar eliminates ED, microcirculation spasm, replenishes daily losses of nutrients, provides an increase in protein and minerals necessary for a growing body. Non-invasive methods for assessing BA and microcirculation are relevant and in demand in children’s sports.