Abstract

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient necessary for the biosynthesis of colagen, of carnitine and other functions that can be related to physical activity. Nevertheless, the data gathered up to the present are not sufficient to substantiate the need for a supplement of the vitamin for individuals undergoing intense physical exercise. In this research the concentrations of vitamin C in the leukocytes and plasma of runners with or without a supplement of this vitamin were ascertained so as to observe the effects of physical exercise on vitamin levels. A daily supplement of two grams of vitamin C increased the concentration in both, leukocytes and plasma of all runners; but in the course of 28 days, even when they were having a normal diet, the majority reached values lower than the minimum considered normal. A positive correlation was found between the vitamin C concentration in plasma and in leukocytes. Results show the advisability of supplementing vitamin C to individuals who are involved in intense physical activity. Verf.-Referat