Effects of Ascorbic Acid on Serum Cortisol and the Testosterone: Cortisol Ratio in Junior Elite Weightlifters : The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research

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Original Article: PDF Only

Effects of Ascorbic Acid on Serum Cortisol and the Testosterone

Cortisol Ratio in Junior Elite Weightlifters

Marsit, Joseph L.1; Conley, Michael S.1; Stone, Michael H.1; Fleck, Steven J.2; Kearney, Jay T.2; Schirmer, Ginger P.3; Keith, Robert L.3; Kraemer, William J.4; Johnson, Robert L.1

Author Information

1Exercise Science, Appalachian State University, Boone, NC 28608; 2Sports Science & Technology, U.S. Olympic Training Center, Colorado Springs, CO 80909; 3Nutrition & Food Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849; 4Laboratory for Sports Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802.

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 12(3):p 179-184, August 1998.
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Abstract

This study examined the short-term effects of the daily ingestion of ascorbic acid (1,000 mg/d) on resting and postexercise concentrations of serum Cortisol (Cort), testosterone (T), and the testosterone:Cortisol ratio (T:C) in 17 junior elite weightlifters. Subjects were assigned to one of two groups equated for body mass and weightlifting total. GAA received ascorbic acid each day. GP received a placebo similar in appearance to the ascorbic acid supplement. Subjects participated in a competitive, high volume, high intensity training program. Blood (fasting) was drawn 5 times: baseline, Day 16 preexercise, immediate post, 1-hr post, and 24 hrs post. Exercise consisted of typical large-muscle-mass exercises familiar to all subjects and was standardized based on relative intensity (% 1-RM). ANCOVA, using preexercise ascorbic acid concentrations as the covariant, showed a significant difference (p = 0.02) for Cortisol at 24 hrs post. Testosterone or the T:C ratio did not differ between groups at any point.

© 1998 National Strength and Conditioning Association