Effect of high-dose vitamin C and E supplementation on muscle recovery and training adaptation: a mini review

Abstract

[Purpose] This review aimed to investigate the effects of high-dose vitamins C and E supplementation combined with acute or chronic exercise on muscle recovery and training adaptation. [Methods] We used PubMed, Web of Science, and Wiley Online Library databases to perform a literature search based on the keywords ‘vitamin C, vitamin E, antioxidants, muscle recovery, training adaptation, and oxidative stress’. [Results] Vitamin C or E supplementation has been reported to contribute to a reduction in oxidative stress and muscle damage; however, there is currently inadequate evidence of their positive effects on muscle recovery. Long-term vitamin C or E supplementation can have negative effects on physiological phenomena required for training adaptation, such as strength, muscle hypertrophy, and endurance. Numerous studies emphasized that an adequate diet consisting of fruits and vegetables is a more appropriate way of consuming antioxidants than supplementation. [Conclusion] The effects of high-dose vitamin C and E supplementation on post-exercise muscle recovery remain unclear and ambiguous, although there is evidence of potential negative effects on training adaptation.