Does vitamin C benefit cardiovascular health as effectively as exercise in overweight people?
Caitlin Dow, Ph.D, headed the study, in which 35 overweight/obese adults were divided into two groups. One group took 500 mg of vitamin C daily for three months, while the members from the other group were instructed to go for a walk every day during the same period. The researchers observed how the vitamin C supplements reduced endothelin-1-induced vasoconstriction every bit as effectively as exercise.
It is well-known that exercise has cardiovascular benefits. Nonetheless, many overweight people find it difficult to motivate themselves to exercise on a daily basis. According to Caitlin and her research colleagues, taking vitamin C supplements may be a more realistic approach for these individuals, although choosing one option should not necessarily rule out the other.
Facts about vitamin C and supplementsGood sources of vitamin C are fruit and berries plus vegetables such as kale, bell pepper, spinach, garlic, and herbs. The highest levels of vitamin C are found in fresh produce. When taking supplements, it is best to choose non-acidic supplements. Supplements with 500-750 mg of vitamin C contain as much vitamin C as 10-15 oranges or 50-75 apples. |
Source:
Savannah, GA. Vitamin C: The Exercise Replacement? The American Physiological Society Press Release. 2015
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