A Review on the Effects of Saffron with Physical Activity

Researchers have always been looking for appropriate patterns of nutritional strategies and physical activities to prevent and treat diseases, increase well-being as well as improving physical performance. This study aimed at reviewing several studies on the relationship between saffron and physical activity. In this study, the relationship between saffron consumption and physical activity of valuable Persian and English databases were investigated until 2019 among 29 studies. Considering entry and exit criteria, 23 studies were selected and reviewed. 8 studies indicated that saffron consumption and short-term physical activity enhanced antioxidant capacity, increased cardio-respiratory function and reduced muscle soreness. 9 studies have examined the interaction of saffron consumption and long-term resistance exercise, revealing increased testosterone, FSH, LH, estradiol, improved body composition, decreased cardiovascular risk factors, fasting blood glucose, and increased reproductive performance. 6 studies examined the relationship between saffron consumption and long-term aerobic exercise activity, reporting enhanced antioxidant capacity, improved blood sugar, augmented respiratory diseases, and improved glycemic indexes. The relationship between saffron consumption and physical activity improves physical body and regulates the functions of metabolism. Much of the research has been due to the combination of these two, especially the existence of saffron metabolites, especially the phallenogals (crostein and crocin), as well as polyphenols and increasing the antioxidant defense system by saffron.