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B-vitamins and exercise: does exercise alter requirements?
Kathleen Woolf1, Melinda M Manore
1Dept of Nutrition, Arizona State University, Mesa 85212, USA.
International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism
|January 24, 2007
Summary
Active individuals need B-vitamins for energy and cell repair. Poor B-vitamin status may impair high-intensity exercise performance, suggesting supplementation may benefit athletes with inadequate diets.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- B-vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, B-6, folate, B-12) are crucial for energy metabolism and cellular processes.
- Adequate B-vitamin status is essential for optimal physical performance.
- Nutritional deficiencies can negatively impact an active individual's capacity for high-intensity exercise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of B-vitamins in energy metabolism and cell regeneration.
- To examine the functions, requirements, and status measures of B-vitamins concerning physical activity.
- To present research on dietary intakes and nutritional status of B-vitamins in active populations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on B-vitamins and their impact on physical activity.
- Analysis of scientific research on dietary intake and nutritional status in active individuals.
- Synthesis of data regarding B-vitamin functions, requirements, and assessment methods.
Main Results:
- B-vitamins are vital for energy production and cell synthesis/repair.
- Poor B-vitamin status can hinder high-intensity exercise performance.
- Exercise may increase requirements for riboflavin and vitamin B-6; data for folate and B-12 are limited.
Conclusions:
- Active individuals with marginal B-vitamin status may experience reduced exercise capacity.
- Athletes with poor dietary habits, including energy restriction or food group elimination, should consider multivitamin/mineral supplementation.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of exercise on folate and vitamin B-12 requirements.
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