Vitamin C Optimizes Exercise Benefits

While exercise is a key element for effective weight loss, overweight individuals tend to report a higher perception of fatigue and exertion during physical activity. Previous studies have suggested that vitamin C helps to offset fatigability. Corey J. Huck, from the University of Wisconsin (Wisconsin, USA, and colleagues completed a four-week long study involving 20 adults, average age 35 years and average BMI 34.3 kg /m2. All subjects consumed a calorie-controlled diet, and a segment of the study group received a daily supplement of 500 mg of vitamin C. At the start and end of the study, participants performed 60 min. of exercise at the intensity of 50% of predicted maximal oxygen consumption. Whereas both groups lost about 4 kg and no breathing differences were apparent between the groups, the vitamin C-supplemented group had significantly lower heart rates during exercise, as compared to the non-supplemented group. In addition, perceived exertion and fatigue (as evaluated by standardized scales) were both significantly reduced in the vitamin C group. The study authors conclude that: "These data provide preliminary evidence that vitamin C status may influence fatigue, heart rate, and perceptions of exertion during moderate exercise in obese individuals.”