l-Cysteine supplementation protects the erythrocyte glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity from reduction induced by forced training

G6PD activity is lowered by training probably due to free radical action. l-cys supplementation may protect G6PD activity from reduction by increasing total antioxidant capacity and glutathione production. G6PD activity should be evaluated in the blood of athletes of Mediterranean origin and female G6PD-deficient heterozygotes.