Effects of Oyster Extract on Serum Apoproteins

Abstract

Effects of an oyster extract on serum apoproteins were evaluated in 22 subjects with a mean age 35.6 years who participated in the Kaike Triathlon (swimming of 3km, cycling of 103.6km and a marathon of 42.195km) held in Tottori prefecture on July 25, 1984. Changes in serum apoproteins were studied before, during, and after the race.

The subjects ingested various doses of the oyster extract (12-20 tablets per day) from 3 weeks before the triathlon. On the day before the race, 12 tablets were administered after breakfast, lunch, and supper. In addition, on the day of the race, 12 tablets were given before starting as well as after swimming, cycling, and completing the race. Placebo was used in 11 subjects selected by a double-blind test. Blood was collected before breakfast (at rest) on the day before the race as well as after swim- ming, cycling and reaching the goal.

The group given the oyster extract showed 1) a higher apo A-I/A-II ratio, 2) a faster recovery from temporary decrease in apo A-I and apo A-II after exercise, 3) a greater decrease in apo C-II during competition, and 4) a greater decrease in apo E after swimming than the untreated control group.