The effect of different doses of nitrate from beetroot juice on exercise performance and cognitive function in healthy female and male recreational exercisers : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand. EMBARGOED until 29th January 2026.

Abstract

The effect of different doses of nitrate from beetroot juice on exercise performance and cognitive function in healthy female and male recreational exercisers. Dietary nitrate supplementation has been shown to improve endurance exercise following acute and long-term supplementation periods as the bioactive form of nitrate, nitric oxide, works within the body to create greater blood flow and therefore oxygen delivery to working muscles through enhanced vasodilation. Limited studies have researched the effects of long-term nitrate supplementation through beetroot juice with female and male recreational athletes. This study investigated if intake of varying doses of dietary nitrate from beetroot juice affect cognitive and exercise performance in recreational female and male athletes due to their reduced cardiovascular systems following a 7-day supplementation period.--Shortened abstract