Short-term Effects of Oxygenated Nanobubble-Infused Drinks vs Placebo Drinks on Performance and Fatigue Among Endurance Runners: A Crossover Trial

Purpose The study aims to check the short-term effects of oxygenated nanobubble-infused drinks on aerobic and anaerobic performance and fatigue among endurance runners. Oxygenated nanobubble beverages have recently gained a lot of attention as an ergogenic aid due to their potential to increase exercise performance and oxygen availability. The primary research question was whether acute consumption of oxygenated nanobubble beverages enhances aerobic performance, anaerobic performance and fatigue resistance compared to a placebo among endurance runners. Methods A randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial was conducted by including twenty recreational endurance runners aged 18–30 years. Participants underwent aerobic fitness testing using the Modified Bruce Protocol Test to assess peak oxygen uptake VO₂peak. Anaerobic capacity and Fatigue index were measured using the Wingate Anaerobic Test. Each participant consumed both oxygenated nanobubble-infused drinks and placebo drinks with 48hours of washout period. Performance results were compared between conditions. Results Consumption of oxygenated nanobubble-infused drinks showed an improvement in aerobic performance, with a mean VO₂peak of 68.5 ± 9.48 ml/kg/min. Anaerobic capacity also increased from 540 ± 113 watts to 582 ± 138 watts, while fatigue index decreased from 45.3 ± 10.03% placebo to 41 ± 10.30%, indicating improved resistance to fatigue compared to the placebo drink. Conclusion Oxygenated nanobubble-infused drinks may provide ergogenic benefits by enhancing aerobic and anaerobic performance and reducing fatigue in endurance runners; however, larger trials are needed to validate effectiveness and underlying mechanisms.