Effect of Vitamin C on Serum Concentration of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor among Healthy Inactive Young Men

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of consuming vitamin C on the serum level of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) among healthy inactive young men. Materials and Methods: In this semi-empirical study, 18 healthy inactive men were randomly divided into two groups; a group consuming vitamin C as a supplement and a control group. Subjects in consuming vitamin C group received 500 milligrams of vitamin C supplement daily for one week. The control group consumed placebo. Blood samples of participants were taken in fasting mode to measure BDNF concentration. BDNF was measured by ELISA method. Results: The serum levels of BDNF significantly increased one week after receiving vitamin C compared to the control group. In addition, the level of BDNF in subjects received vitamin C for one week significantly increased compared to the beginning of the investigation. Conclusion: Data indicate that consuming vitamin C increased the serum concentration of BDNF in healthy inactive men.