Exercise increases the oxidation of fuels and as a by-product of this energy generation there is a significant increase in the production of free radicals. This necessitates protective measures to be in place in order to prevent significant tissue damage. Both vitamin E and vitamin C play a role in protection from exercise induced free radicals, but they do it in different ways and in different but overlapping locations. Both vitamin C and vitamin E reduce lipid peroxidation following exercise, although no actual ergogenic effects are known. Instead it is likely that their role is to prevent a deterioration in health associated with exercise that can be a form of stress on the body. Vitamin E may also have a significant effect at boosting the immune system following exercise, particularly circulating neutrophil levels. Vitamin E may also be involved in skeletal muscle repair. As vitamin C can recycle vitamin E, all the benefits of vitamin E can be manifested through the action of vitamin C increasing availability of vitamin E.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
