Exploring the concept of vigor and dys-vigor in men of 50-65 years: effects of Robuvit®

BACKGROUND: The aim of this registry study was to evaluate the effects of Robuvit (R) (extract from oak wood), in otherwise healthy subjects (aged 50 to 65 years) who complained of decreased general vigor. Robuvit (R) has been shown to be effective in convalescence, chronic fatigue syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder. METHODS: The standard management (SM) for this condition included diet, regular daily routines and regular exercise. All subjects had increased oxidative stress (>350 Carr Units) at inclusion. Two groups, SM and SMTRobuvit (R) supplementation, were formed. Robuvit (R) was supplemented at a dose of 300 mg/day for 4 weeks. A visual analogue scale line or vigor visual analogue line score of the most common problems associated with a decrease in vigor was used by all included subjects. RESULTS. Forty subjects were included in the study. 20 in the SM group and 20 in the SM + Robuvit (R) supplement group. All subjects completed the 4-week study; both groups improved with the health program and under SM. No drop-outs and no side effects were recorded; a very good tolerability for the supplement was reported. At 4 weeks, the scores in Robuvit (R)-supplemented subjects, were significantly higher for all vigor-related items in comparison with the scores of subjects managed with the SM only (P<0.05). In parallel, oxidative stress (plasma free radicals expressed in Carr units) was statistically lower (P<0.05) in Robuvit (R)-supplemented subjects than in SM only after 4 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: The concept of vigor, partially associated with premature aging, decreased level of activity and exercise, a sedentary lifestyle. appears to be a quantifiable entity. Robuvit (R) supplementation - previously shown to be effective in chronic fatigue syndrome, convalescence, post-mononucleosis, PTSD or in liver failure - improves vigor; further evaluations need to be planned according to the concept of this pilot registry.