Researchers in China examined the effects of vitamins C and E on exercise performance in an animal model, with results published in the Di Yi Jun Yi Da Xue Xue Bao (2003;23[9]:892–894).
In the study, 50 rats were divided into four groups. One group received vitamin C supplementation, one received vitamin E, one received a combination of vitamins C and E, and the control group received no supplementation. All groups, except the non-exercising controls, underwent a four-week program of repeated treadmill exercise.
After four weeks, the rats receiving the combined vitamin C and E supplementation were able to exercise for longer durations and demonstrated greater quadriceps muscle mass compared with the control group. These benefits were not observed in the groups receiving vitamin C or vitamin E alone.
Vitamin E is the primary fat-soluble antioxidant within cell membranes, and its antioxidant activity is supported by vitamin C, which helps regenerate vitamin E after it neutralizes free radicals. The findings suggest that antioxidant synergy between vitamins C and E may enhance exercise adaptation in this animal model.
