How do antioxidants assist athletes?

Antioxidants play a crucial role for athletes primarily by helping to mitigate oxidative stress. During intense physical activity, the body experiences increased production of free radicals—unstable molecules that can lead to oxidative damage within cells. This oxidative stress can impair muscle function, recovery, and overall performance.

By neutralizing these free radicals, antioxidants can reduce oxidative stress, which may lead to improved recovery times and a reduced chance of injury or illness. This is particularly beneficial for athletes who often push their bodies to the limit and may experience greater levels of oxidative stress compared to non-athletes. Examples of antioxidants include vitamins C and E, selenium, and beta-carotene, which are found in various fruits, vegetables, and whole foods often consumed by athletes looking to support their recovery and health.

The other options do not accurately describe the role of antioxidants in athletic performance or recovery. While they do not directly improve muscle size or strength, or enhance endurance performance, they play an indirect but important role in supporting an athlete’s overall ability to recover and maintain optimal performance.