Benefit to endurance athletes...
The influence of an antioxidant vitamin supplement on
immune cell response to prolonged exercise was determined using a randomized,
double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. Following a 3-week period during which subjects ingested
a multivitamin and -mineral complex sufficient to meet the recommended daily
allowance, they took either a placebo or an antioxidant vitamin supplement containing
900 mg vitamin C and other antioxidants. Blood samples were drawn prior to and
immediately following exercise. Plasma vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene
concentrations significantly increased following 7-day supplementation.
Although the impact of exercise on neutrophil function
is multifactorial, the data suggest that antioxidant supplementation may be
of benefit to endurance athletes for the maintenance of this particular function
of the innate immune system following the 7-day supplementation period.
Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2003 Sep;13(3):369-81
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