Effect of vitamin C and E in modulating peripheral vascular response to local cold stimulus in man at high altitude

At high altitude (HA), cold stress is aggravated by hypoxia, perhaps due to the increased formation of free radicals which trigger oxidative stress. This may be one of the contributing factors for adverse effects including disturbances in microcirculation and capillary permeability resulting in decreased peripheral blood flow. This leads to altered cold-induced-vasodilatation (CIVD) response on exposure to HA. The present study was conducted on 40 male volunteers (4 groups of 10 each) to evaluate the utility of supplementation of vitamin C (500 mg/d)and vitamin E (400 mg/d) singly, as well as in combination, in modulating peripheral vascular response by assessing CIVD response under local cold stimulus both at Delhi (200 m) and at HA (3,700 m). On exposure to 3,700 m, decreased CIVD response was observed in all the groups. The responses were better in vitamin supplemented groups, in general, as compared to the placebo group. The best CIVD response was seen in the vitamin C (singly)-treated group. Administration of vitamin C and E together did not result in any additional benefit. Facilitation of CIVD response due to supplementation of vitamin C may be attributed to its (a) antioxidant effect, and (b) major physiological functions of increased metabolism and thermogenic properties, facilitation of collagen synthesis, restoration of intercellular substances and better maintenance of the rheological status of the blood. Hence, vitamin C is effective for improving peripheral blood flow and thereby reduces the incidence of cold injuries during acclimatization or outdoor duties at HA.