The Claim

In endurance-trained male runners aged 39–58 years, acute supplementation with vitamin C and E has no significant effect on the recovery of countermovement jump height and squat jump height following a bout of prolonged running.

Source: Effects of Acute Vitamin C plus Vitamin E Supplementation on Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Runners: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
80score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Description
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Taking vitamin C and E supplements right after long-distance running does not change how high healthy male runners can jump during recovery.

See the scientific wording

In endurance-trained male runners aged 39–58 years, acute vitamin C and E supplementation does not significantly affect performance recovery, including countermovement jump and squat jump height, after a bout of prolonged running, suggesting that antioxidant intake does not enhance neuromuscular function restoration.

Why this might work

After long-distance running, muscle cells experience stress that temporarily reduces their ability to generate force quickly. Taking vitamin C and E does not change how the muscles recover their strength or how the nerves signal them to contract. The muscles and nerves return to normal function at the same rate whether or not these vitamins are taken.

Verified mechanismbased on 1 study

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Effects of Acute Vitamin C plus Vitamin E Supplementation on Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Runners: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

    The study gave some runners vitamin C and E before a long run and others a placebo, then checked how well they could jump afterward. Both groups recovered the same way—so the vitamins didn’t help them bounce back faster.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.