2.3. Biochemical Evaluation
inflammation, ASSAYPRO, TNF-α
INFLAMMATION, TUMOR NECROSIS, POLAND, BLOOD
The effects of used supplements can be observed via serum biochemical parameters indicating iron homeostasis, inflammation processes, and hormonal balance. Thus, the biochemical parameters used in this study are the most suitable for showing these changes, and they can also be used for prognosis and evaluation of bovine colostrum supplementation in athletes.During each exercise test performed in T-1, T-2, and T-3, blood samples were taken at three time points: before the exercise (Pre), post-exercise (Post), and after 3 h of rest (3 h restitution). Blood from the ulnar vein was collected in the amount of 2 × 9 mL to obtain serum for biochemical tests. The serum obtained from the competitors was frozen and stored for determinations at −80 °C. The results of the biochemical tests were determined using the following sets: IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1)—determined using the DRG ELISA test; testosterone—determined using the DRG ELISA test; cortisol—determined using the DRG ELISA test; IL-10 (interleukin-10)—determined using the ELISA test DRG; IL-6 (interleukin-6)—determined using DRG ELISA; IgG—determined using SunRed ELISA; hepcidin—determined using DRG ELISA; TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor α)—determined using SunRed ELISA; and lactoferrin—determined using ASSAYPRO ELISA; iron + UIBC—determined via colorimetry using the colorimetric method (Bio-Maxima, Lublin, Poland). The unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC) was calculated using the following formula: UIBC = TIBC–Fe. All parameters were determined using a spectrophotometer, SPECTROstar Nano (BMG LABTECH, Ortenberg, Germany).