Vitamin C is used in the body in several different ways. One of these ways is to make collagen. Collagen is important for the bodybuilder and strength training athlete as it supports joint health. Many different exercises can take a toll on your joints, even if proper form, rest and recovery, and stretching principles are strictly adhered to. By supplementing with vitamin C, basic exercises such as barbell bench presses, shoulder presses, deadlifts, and squats will be far less taxing on your joints.

Vitamin C is also known to reduce levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone feared by bodybuilders because it is known to produce a catabolic effect in the body during training sessions (usually those over one hour in length).

Sources of Vitamin C

Broccoli
Cantaloupe
Cauliflower
Oranges
Peppers
Tomatoes
Strawberries

Recommended Intake for a Bodybuilder

500 - 1,000 mg with your postworkout meal can offset the levels of cortisol produced during drawn out and intense training.