Acute effect of ascorbic acid on fibrinolytic activity

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cardiology
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Fibrinolytic activity is crucial for preventing blood clots.
• Dietary factors, like fat intake, can influence fibrinolysis.
• Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is a potent antioxidant with potential vascular effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the acute impact of oral ascorbic acid on serum fibrinolytic activity.
• To assess the effect of ascorbic acid in healthy individuals and patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).
• To determine if ascorbic acid can mitigate the decrease in fibrinolytic activity following fat consumption.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 40 adult males.
• Administration of 1g oral ascorbic acid.
• Measurement of serum fibrinolytic activity at various time points.
• Comparison between healthy adults, CAD patients, and a group consuming fat simultaneously.

Main Results:

• Ascorbic acid increased serum levels by 71% and fibrinolytic activity by 137% in healthy adults.
• Similar increases in fibrinolytic activity were observed in CAD patients.
• Ascorbic acid prevented the fall in fibrinolytic activity after fat intake, increasing it by 64%.

Conclusions:

• Acute oral ascorbic acid intake enhances serum fibrinolytic activity.
• Ascorbic acid demonstrates potential benefits for cardiovascular health by improving fibrinolysis.
• Vitamin C may play a role in managing postprandial changes in fibrinolytic function.