Folic acid (folate) 400 mcg/d Functions as a coenzyme in the formation of DNA and red blood cells. An increase in red blood cells could improve oxygen delivery to the muscles during exercise. Believed to be important to help prevent birth defects and may help decrease homocysteine levels. Studies suggest that increasing dietary availability of folic acid during pregnancy can lower the incidence of

birth defects [493]. Additionally, it may decrease homocysteine levels (a risk factor for heart disease) [494]. In well-nourished and folate deficient-athletes, folic acid did not improve exercise performance [495]. Pantothenic acid 5 mg/d Acts as a coenzyme for acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl CoA). This may benefit CH5183284 price aerobic or oxygen energy systems. Selleck Ro 61-8048 Research has reported no improvements in aerobic performance with acetyl CoA supplementation. However, one study reported a decrease in lactic acid accumulation, without an improvement in performance [496]. DNA Synthesis inhibitor Beta carotene None Serves as an antioxidant. Theorized to help minimize exercise-induced lipid peroxidation and muscle damage. Research indicates that beta carotene supplementation with or without other antioxidants can help decrease exercise-induced peroxidation. Over time, this may help athletes

tolerate training. However, it is unclear whether antioxidant supplementation affects exercise performance [483]. Vitamin C Males 90 mg/d Females 75 mg/d Used in a number of different metabolic processes

in the body. It is involved in the synthesis of epinephrine, iron absorption, and is an antioxidant. Theoretically, it could benefit exercise performance by improving metabolism during exercise. There is also evidence that vitamin C may enhance immunity. In well-nourished athletes, vitamin C supplementation does not appear to improve physical performance [497, 498]. However, there is some evidence that vitamin C supplementation (e.g., 500 mg/d) following intense exercise may decrease the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections [471, 499, 500]. Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) based on the 1989 Food & Nutrition Board, National Academy of Sciences-National Research Council recommendations. Updated in 2001 Minerals Minerals are essential inorganic elements necessary for Rolziracetam a host of metabolic processes. Minerals serve as structure for tissue, important components of enzymes and hormones, and regulators of metabolic and neural control. Some minerals have been found to be deficient in athletes or become deficient in response to training and/or prolonged exercise. When mineral status is inadequate, exercise capacity may be reduced. Dietary supplementation of minerals in deficient athletes has generally been found to improve exercise capacity. Additionally, supplementation of specific minerals in non-deficient athletes has also been reported to affect exercise capacity.