The pre-clinical research investigated the impacts of a curd supplement with 8% collagen and 4% plant extracts extracts of yarrow, sage, sea buckthorn and rosehip.
“The developed enriched curd product can be considered as a promising means of specialized nutrition for people experiencing increased physical activity, including athletes,” wrote researchers from Kazakhstan and Hungary.
The researchers noted that curd-based products are effective carriers for bioactive compounds in sports and preventative nutrition due to their structural matrix, nutritional value and widespread use.
As such, adding collagen concentrates and plant extracts may further enhance the physiological benefits of curd products.
Collagen contains amino acids that are involved in the synthesis and regeneration of connective tissue. Collagen peptides may have adaptogenic potential and can support joint, skin and intestinal barrier health, as well as immune modulation to benefit athlete recovery and body composition.
Plant extracts are sources of polyphenols and other bioactive compounds that can mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially improving performance and recovery in active individuals.
“Thus, the use of plant-derived extracts in combination with a collagen-containing concentrate strengthens antioxidant defense, promotes the restoration of cellular metabolism and enhances the adaptive capabilities of the athlete’s body,” the researchers wrote.
They noted that their study is the first comprehensive evaluation of the combined ingredients as a functional food.
“For the first time, it was experimentally shown that biologically active components in the dairy product have a targeted physiological effect with regular consumption,” they wrote.
Study details
Researchers prepared three experimental samples using cow’s milk curd, 8% collagen concentrate from poultry and 4% plant extracts.
The curd product sample in the first group contained sea buckthorn and rosehips extracts, and the product in the second groups contained yarrow and sage extracts.
The study assessed the biological effects of the products in rats randomized to one of two groups or a control group, which received a twice-daily, two-gram dose for seven, 14 and 21 days.
“In both experimental groups, a reliable increase in the enzymatic activity of the antioxidant system, a decrease in lipid peroxidation and the level of proinflammatory cytokines, an increase in immunoglobulins and activation of 5′-nucleotidase were observed,” the researchers wrote, noting that the most pronounced effects were in the sea buckthorn and rosehip extract group.
They also observed that the supplement influenced the metabolism of purines, which are substances involved in energy production.
“The results of the study justify the feasibility of conducting subsequent clinical trials with the participation of target groups of consumers to clarify the mechanisms of action and evaluate the long-term effectiveness of the product,” they concluded.
Source: Nutrients 2025, 17(21), 3373. doi: 10.3390/nu17213373 (registering DOI). “Functional Properties of Enriched Curd with Collagen and Plant Phytochemicals for Athletes and Physiological Benefits: Evidence Data from Preclinical Trials In Vivo.” Authors: K. Zharykbasova et al.
