Determining the Potential of L-Selenomethionine as a Protective Agent Against Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage

Background. Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is a phenomenon that arises from muscle damage following uncommon or intense eccentric exercise, with symptoms persisting for a few days. The condition is characterized by muscle pain, reduced muscle strength, limited range of motion, and general discomfort that affects performance and disrupts the exercise program. Objectives. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Selenium supplementation on DOMS and muscle damage after performing heavy eccentric exercise. Materials and methods. An experimental pre-post control group design was used in this study. A total of 44 male students from the Sports Science Department of the State University of Surabaya (Universitas Negeri Surabaya) were randomly and double-blindly assigned to either a selenium supplementation group (n = 22) or a placebo group (n = 22). The participants in both groups were instructed to consume one selenium or placebo capsule for 28 days. Following the 28-day supplementation period, both groups underwent a 10-set x 10-rep bench stepping-test. Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) and Creatine Kinase (CK) levels were assessed at 24 and 48 hours in the post-exercise phase. Results. The findings of the study demonstrated that during the 24 to 48-hour period following heavy eccentric exercise, both groups experienced a reduction in Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) and CK plasma levels. However, the selenium supplementation group exhibited a significantly greater reduction in DOMS and CK levels compared to the placebo group (p < 0.05). This suggests that selenium supplementation may enhance the natural recovery process, rather than being solely responsible for the observed reduction in these markers. Conclusions. In conclusion, Selenium supplementation may lower the likelihood of muscle injury following heavy eccentric exercise, as it effectively decreases plasma DOMS and CK levels in the bloodstream.