The effect of high dosage vitamin C intake on aerobic and anaerobic capacity

The effect of a 21 days period of extra supplement of high doses of vitamin C on the improvement of aerobic and anaerobic performance were evaluated. 33 sedentary males attended a physical training course which consisted of running and hiking. A double blind study was conducted. One group (group C - 17 subjects) was given vitamin C p.o., whereas the other group (group NC - 16 subjects) was given placebo. Predicted maximal oxygen uptake (V̇(O₂)max) according to the multistage ergometer test of Astrand and anaerobic capacity by the procedure of Inbar were evaluated. A significant and almost identical increase in V̇(O₂)max was observed in both groups (Group C - 29.0 ± 1.1 to 38.4 ± 1.9; and group NC - 28.4 ± 1.1 to 38.4 ± 1.73 ml O₂/kg/BW/min). No improvement of anaerobic capacity was recorded in either group. Intake of high doses of vitamin C during aerobic training has no beneficial effect on either aerobic or anaerobic capacity.