We evaluated how vitamin C might improve endothelial function in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In our study, we compared 10 individuals with untreated OSA to 10 matched control subjects without sleep issues. We measured how well blood vessels reacted to increased blood flow, known as flow-mediated dilation (FMD), using ultrasound before and after administering vitamin C.
Our findings revealed a significant difference: baseline FMD was lower in OSA patients compared to the control group. However, after an intravenous injection of vitamin C, the FMD in OSA patients improved dramatically, reaching levels similar to those seen in the healthy controls. Interestingly, vasoreactivity in the control subjects remained unchanged.
These results suggest that oxidative stress might be a key factor contributing to the endothelial dysfunction experienced by individuals with OSA. The positive response to vitamin C opens up exciting possibilities for exploring antioxidant treatments in managing cardiovascular issues related to OSA.
Read More
9
Vitamin C mitigates sleep apnea effects
Carotid body and cardiorespiratory alterations in intermittent hypoxia: the oxidative link.
We explored how vitamin C treatment affects individuals suffering from sleep apnea, particularly through the lens of intermittent hypoxia. In a study where male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to 5% oxygen levels, we observed that intermittent hypoxia led to notable changes in the body. These alterations included heightened carotid body responses to low oxygen, shifts in heart rate variability, and an increase in blood pressure.
The research specifically focused on the effects of ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, at a concentration of 1.25 g/L added to the drinking water of these rats over 21 days. What we found was quite promising: vitamin C treatment significantly reduced markers of oxidative stress in the plasma and carotid body. This antioxidant appeared to counteract the negative effects typically seen during intermittent hypoxia, including improved ventilatory responses to low oxygen levels and stabilization of heart rate and blood pressure.
Overall, our findings suggest that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the heightened sensitivity and respiratory changes associated with sleep apnea. By mitigating these oxidative effects through vitamin C, we could potentially improve the quality of life for those affected by this condition.
Read More
8
Vitamin C may reduce sleep apnea
The Association Between Dietary Vitamin C and Sleep Disorders: A Cohort Study Based on UK Biobank.
We delved into an interesting question: can dietary vitamin C help alleviate sleep apnea? To explore this, we examined data from over 68,000 participants in the UK Biobank and focused on their dietary habits, particularly how much vitamin C they consumed. By using a detailed questionnaire to assess their intake and applying advanced statistical methods, we aimed to uncover any potential connections between vitamin C and sleep disorders, especially sleep apnea.
The results were quite revealing. Participants who consumed higher levels of vitamin C, particularly those in the top intake bracket (around 132.88 to 191.51 mg per day), showed a significant reduction in the risk of developing sleep disorders, including sleep apnea. Specifically, we found that this group had a 25% lower risk of sleep apnea compared to those with lower vitamin C intake.
What's even more encouraging is that this protective effect seemed particularly strong among men and those under 60 years old, suggesting that a sufficient intake of vitamin C could be a worthwhile strategy for preventing sleep apnea. Our findings highlight the importance of diet in managing sleep health and point to vitamin C as a valuable nutrient for those struggling with sleep issues.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Improved sleep health
1 people found this helpful
Solgar Extended Release Vitamin C is ideal for me as I take it at night with melatonin. This specific vitamin C greatly supports sleep health; my doctor recommended it to me, and I absolutely loved it.
Read More
7
More energy
3 people found this helpful
With pharmacies, there is no comparison! One capsule in the morning and my day is much cheerier than before. Since taking these vitamins, my afternoon drowsiness has nearly vanished, and I've gained more energy. I now get enough rest in a shorter time.
Read More
8
Enhanced energy
Excellent quality with good ingredients. My sleep has improved, energy levels have increased, and the capsule size is comfortable—no stomach irritation. My immunity has also risen.
We explored how vitamin C treatment affects individuals suffering from sleep apnea, particularly through the lens of intermittent hypoxia. In a study where male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to 5% oxygen levels, we observed that intermittent hypoxia led to notable changes in the body. These alterations included heightened carotid body responses to low oxygen, shifts in heart rate variability, and an increase in blood pressure.
The research specifically focused on the effects of ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, at a concentration of 1.25 g/L added to the drinking water of these rats over 21 days. What we found was quite promising: vitamin C treatment significantly reduced markers of oxidative stress in the plasma and carotid body. This antioxidant appeared to counteract the negative effects typically seen during intermittent hypoxia, including improved ventilatory responses to low oxygen levels and stabilization of heart rate and blood pressure.
Overall, our findings suggest that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the heightened sensitivity and respiratory changes associated with sleep apnea. By mitigating these oxidative effects through vitamin C, we could potentially improve the quality of life for those affected by this condition.
Read More
9
Vitamin C improves sleep apnea endothelial function
Antioxidant vitamin C improves endothelial function in obstructive sleep apnea.
We evaluated how vitamin C might improve endothelial function in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In our study, we compared 10 individuals with untreated OSA to 10 matched control subjects without sleep issues. We measured how well blood vessels reacted to increased blood flow, known as flow-mediated dilation (FMD), using ultrasound before and after administering vitamin C.
Our findings revealed a significant difference: baseline FMD was lower in OSA patients compared to the control group. However, after an intravenous injection of vitamin C, the FMD in OSA patients improved dramatically, reaching levels similar to those seen in the healthy controls. Interestingly, vasoreactivity in the control subjects remained unchanged.
These results suggest that oxidative stress might be a key factor contributing to the endothelial dysfunction experienced by individuals with OSA. The positive response to vitamin C opens up exciting possibilities for exploring antioxidant treatments in managing cardiovascular issues related to OSA.
Read More
8
Vitamin C may reduce sleep apnea
The Association Between Dietary Vitamin C and Sleep Disorders: A Cohort Study Based on UK Biobank.
We delved into an interesting question: can dietary vitamin C help alleviate sleep apnea? To explore this, we examined data from over 68,000 participants in the UK Biobank and focused on their dietary habits, particularly how much vitamin C they consumed. By using a detailed questionnaire to assess their intake and applying advanced statistical methods, we aimed to uncover any potential connections between vitamin C and sleep disorders, especially sleep apnea.
The results were quite revealing. Participants who consumed higher levels of vitamin C, particularly those in the top intake bracket (around 132.88 to 191.51 mg per day), showed a significant reduction in the risk of developing sleep disorders, including sleep apnea. Specifically, we found that this group had a 25% lower risk of sleep apnea compared to those with lower vitamin C intake.
What's even more encouraging is that this protective effect seemed particularly strong among men and those under 60 years old, suggesting that a sufficient intake of vitamin C could be a worthwhile strategy for preventing sleep apnea. Our findings highlight the importance of diet in managing sleep health and point to vitamin C as a valuable nutrient for those struggling with sleep issues.
Read More
8
Vitamin C in sleep apnea treatment
Antioxidant therapies for obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
We explored how antioxidant therapies, including Vitamin C, can benefit individuals suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A systematic review and meta-analysis looked into six studies involving various antioxidants, with the inclusion of Vitamin C among other treatments.
Our findings indicated that Vitamin C, alongside other antioxidants, contributed to improvements in several critical areas. We observed enhancements in endothelial function, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood flow. Additionally, the studies reported significant reductions in markers of oxidative stress and noteworthy improvements in sleep quality indicators.
While Vitamin C was part of the combination therapies assessed, it is essential to note that we cannot draw definitive conclusions about its standalone effectiveness for OSA. The overall positive results call for further exploration in future research to better understand the specific contributions of Vitamin C in treating this condition.
Read More
8
Vitamin C may enhance sleep apnea
Oxidative stress and obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome.
We explored the impact of vitamin C and antioxidant treatment on patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). The study involved 20 male patients who first underwent continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for two nights. Afterward, they took vitamin C (100 mg twice daily) and vitamin E (400 IU twice daily) for 45 days, followed by another sleep assessment through polysomnography (PSG).
Our findings revealed that oxidative stress seemed to play a significant role in sleep disturbances for OSAS patients. Treatment with vitamin C, alongside vitamin E and CPAP, led to improvements in sleep quality. Patients experienced a decrease in the number of apneic episodes and reported better overall sleep. Notably, there was a reduction in plasma lipid peroxidation and a restoration of reduced glutathione levels.
Even though the study combined various treatments, the data still suggests that antioxidants like vitamin C can bolster sleep quality for those with sleep apnea. Patients spent more time in restorative sleep stages and reported feeling less sleepy during the day.
Overall, while we should consider the combined effects of the treatments, this study highlights potential benefits of vitamin C in enhancing sleep for individuals affected by OSAS—supporting the idea that managing oxidative stress may improve sleep outcomes.
Solgar Extended Release Vitamin C is ideal for me as I take it at night with melatonin. This specific vitamin C greatly supports sleep health; my doctor recommended it to me, and I absolutely loved it.
Read More
7
More energy
3 people found this helpful
With pharmacies, there is no comparison! One capsule in the morning and my day is much cheerier than before. Since taking these vitamins, my afternoon drowsiness has nearly vanished, and I've gained more energy. I now get enough rest in a shorter time.
Read More
8
Enhanced energy
Excellent quality with good ingredients. My sleep has improved, energy levels have increased, and the capsule size is comfortable—no stomach irritation. My immunity has also risen.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Sleep apnea is a common and potentially serious sleep disorder characterized by irregular breathing patterns during sleep. Individuals with sleep apnea experience episodes of disrupted or paused breathing, which can occur multiple times throughout the night. These interruptions can last a few seconds to several minutes and often lead to fragmented sleep, which may result in excessive daytime sleepiness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. The condition can be broadly classified into two main types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), caused by a blockage of the upper airway, and central sleep apnea (CSA), which occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
The diagnosis of sleep apnea typically involves a sleep study, either conducted in a sleep clinic or at home using portable monitoring devices. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition but may include lifestyle changes, the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, oral appliances, or even surgery in some cases. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to various health complications, including cardiovascular issues, metabolic disorders, and impaired cognitive function, making it essential to consult a healthcare professional if you suspect you or someone you know may be affected by this disorder.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in numerous bodily functions. As an essential nutrient, it contributes to the growth and repair of tissues in the body, and it is vital for the production of collagen, an important protein that helps maintain skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Additionally, Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, which means it helps combat free radicals—unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and contribute to various chronic diseases.
Moreover, Vitamin C enhances iron absorption from plant-based foods, making it a vital component for those following vegetarian or vegan diets. While many people get sufficient Vitamin C from a well-balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables like oranges, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, and bell peppers, some individuals might require supplementation. It's generally recommended to stay within the daily intake guidelines, as excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances. Overall, Vitamin C is not just a skincare celebrity—it's a fundamental part of maintaining overall health and well-being.
Based on user reviews, results from taking supplements for Sleep Apnea can vary significantly. Some users report noticeable improvements in their sleep health shortly after starting their regimen, particularly when combining these supplements with melatonin. One user specifically mentions the beneficial effects of taking Solgar Extended Release Vitamin C at night for sleep support, indicating that they felt positive changes fairly quickly Read Review.
Additionally, other users also attest to improved sleep quality and increased energy levels, suggesting that benefits may be felt after consistent use over a set period. However, precise timelines weren't detailed in these reviews, so individual experiences may vary widely depending on personal health factors and consistency of supplement intake Read Review. Overall, while some users report quick improvements, others might need more time to see significant benefits.
Vitamin C shows promise in the context of sleep apnea treatment, supported by several scientific studies. For instance, a large assessment from the UK Biobank indicated that individuals with higher dietary vitamin C intake demonstrated a 25% lower risk of developing sleep disorders, including sleep apnea [1]. Furthermore, antioxidant therapies incorporating vitamin C have been found to enhance endothelial function and improve sleep quality indicators in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) [2]. Additionally, research demonstrated that vitamin C can mitigate oxidative stress linked with sleep apnea, further supporting its potential benefits [4].
However, it's important to note that much of the current research incorporates vitamin C as part of combined therapies rather than as a standalone treatment. While studies suggest positive effects on sleep quality and reduction of apnea episodes, further research is needed to clarify vitamin C’s independent benefits [9]. As it currently stands, vitamin C may be a helpful adjunct in the management of sleep apnea, particularly in reducing oxidative stress and improving related symptoms, but more controlled studies are required to fully establish its efficacy [7].
Users have reported various improvements in their symptoms after taking specific supplements, particularly for sleep health and energy levels. For instance, one user shared that taking Solgar Extended Release Vitamin C at night, alongside melatonin, greatly supported their sleep health and led to noticeable benefits Read Review. Another user noted that incorporating a vitamin supplement into their morning routine significantly reduced their afternoon drowsiness and enhanced their overall cheerfulness throughout the day Read Review.
Additionally, many users aligned on improvements in sleep quality and increased energy, with one reviewer specifically mentioning heightened immunity and lack of stomach irritation from the capsules Read Review. Like all supplements, individual experiences will vary, so while some users see prompt results, others may require more time to benefit fully from their supplements.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining supplements like melatonin with Solgar Extended Release Vitamin C for managing Sleep Apnea. One user highlighted that taking this specific vitamin C at night along with melatonin effectively supported their sleep health, which had been recommended by a doctor Read Review. This combination not only seems to enhance sleep quality but has also led to quicker restorative rest for them.
Furthermore, many users noted that adding vitamin supplements to their daily regimen has significantly reduced afternoon drowsiness and improved overall energy levels. One favorite combination involved taking a vitamin in the morning, which the user claimed leaned to a much cheerier day and sufficient rest in a shorter timeframe Read Review. Overall, while there’s anecdotal evidence supporting the efficacy of combining these supplements, individual results inevitably vary.
The optimal dose of Vitamin C for managing sleep apnea appears to be around 132.88 to 191.51 mg per day, as supported by research conducted on a large cohort of participants. Those consuming this level of Vitamin C demonstrated a notable 25% reduced risk of developing sleep disorders, particularly sleep apnea [1]. This finding emphasizes the potential benefits of maintaining adequate Vitamin C levels as part of a strategy to alleviate sleep-related issues, especially for men and younger populations.
However, while Vitamin C shows promise as part of combined antioxidant therapies, researchers caution that definitive conclusions about its effectiveness as a standalone treatment are still needed [2]. The complexity of sleep apnea necessitates further exploration of targeted treatments and Vitamin C's distinct contributions, as several studies indicated improved sleep quality when Vitamin C was included as part of multi-component therapies [9]. Ultimately, integrating Vitamin C into a comprehensive approach for sleep apnea could benefit those seeking relief from this condition.
9
Improved sleep health
1 people found this helpful
Solgar Extended Release Vitamin C is ideal for me as I take it at night with melatonin. This specific vitamin C greatly supports sleep health; my doctor recommended it to me, and I absolutely loved it.
8
Enhanced energy
Excellent quality with good ingredients. My sleep has improved, energy levels have increased, and the capsule size is comfortable—no stomach irritation. My immunity has also risen.
7
More energy
3 people found this helpful
With pharmacies, there is no comparison! One capsule in the morning and my day is much cheerier than before. Since taking these vitamins, my afternoon drowsiness has nearly vanished, and I've gained more energy. I now get enough rest in a shorter time.
8
Vitamin C may reduce sleep apnea
The Association Between Dietary Vitamin C and Sleep Disorders: A Cohort Study Based on UK Biobank.
We delved into an interesting question: can dietary vitamin C help alleviate sleep apnea? To explore this, we examined data from over 68,000 participants in the UK Biobank and focused on their dietary habits, particularly how much vitamin C they consumed. By using a detailed questionnaire to assess their intake and applying advanced statistical methods, we aimed to uncover any potential connections between vitamin C and sleep disorders, especially sleep apnea.
The results were quite revealing. Participants who consumed higher levels of vitamin C, particularly those in the top intake bracket (around 132.88 to 191.51 mg per day), showed a significant reduction in the risk of developing sleep disorders, including sleep apnea. Specifically, we found that this group had a 25% lower risk of sleep apnea compared to those with lower vitamin C intake.
What's even more encouraging is that this protective effect seemed particularly strong among men and those under 60 years old, suggesting that a sufficient intake of vitamin C could be a worthwhile strategy for preventing sleep apnea. Our findings highlight the importance of diet in managing sleep health and point to vitamin C as a valuable nutrient for those struggling with sleep issues.
8
Vitamin C in sleep apnea treatment
Antioxidant therapies for obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
We explored how antioxidant therapies, including Vitamin C, can benefit individuals suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A systematic review and meta-analysis looked into six studies involving various antioxidants, with the inclusion of Vitamin C among other treatments.
Our findings indicated that Vitamin C, alongside other antioxidants, contributed to improvements in several critical areas. We observed enhancements in endothelial function, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood flow. Additionally, the studies reported significant reductions in markers of oxidative stress and noteworthy improvements in sleep quality indicators.
While Vitamin C was part of the combination therapies assessed, it is essential to note that we cannot draw definitive conclusions about its standalone effectiveness for OSA. The overall positive results call for further exploration in future research to better understand the specific contributions of Vitamin C in treating this condition.
7
Vitamin C's potential in OSAS
Evaluation of oxidative stress markers in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and additional antioxidant therapy: a review article.
We explored the effectiveness of vitamin C as an antioxidant therapy for individuals suffering from obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). This review focused on understanding how oxidative stress, a condition where harmful reactive oxygen species accumulate in the body, plays a role in OSAS. It was noted that the cycles of hypoxia and reoxygenation, common in OSAS, lead to this harmful build-up, making antioxidant treatment a potential avenue for relief.
Among various antioxidant agents, vitamin C showed promise in reducing oxidative stress levels. Specific markers like thioredoxin, malondialdehyde, and superoxide dismutase indicated a clear relationship between elevated oxidative stress and sleep apnea. Additionally, studies cited in the review pointed to vitamin C and another antioxidant, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), as potentially beneficial in improving conditions for OSAS patients.
While the findings suggest that vitamin C could be part of a complementary treatment strategy for sleep apnea, the individual effects of vitamin C alone were not fully established. Therefore, while it's an exciting prospect, further research may be needed to entirely understand its impact in isolation.
8
Vitamin C may enhance sleep apnea
Oxidative stress and obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome.
We explored the impact of vitamin C and antioxidant treatment on patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). The study involved 20 male patients who first underwent continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for two nights. Afterward, they took vitamin C (100 mg twice daily) and vitamin E (400 IU twice daily) for 45 days, followed by another sleep assessment through polysomnography (PSG).
Our findings revealed that oxidative stress seemed to play a significant role in sleep disturbances for OSAS patients. Treatment with vitamin C, alongside vitamin E and CPAP, led to improvements in sleep quality. Patients experienced a decrease in the number of apneic episodes and reported better overall sleep. Notably, there was a reduction in plasma lipid peroxidation and a restoration of reduced glutathione levels.
Even though the study combined various treatments, the data still suggests that antioxidants like vitamin C can bolster sleep quality for those with sleep apnea. Patients spent more time in restorative sleep stages and reported feeling less sleepy during the day.
Overall, while we should consider the combined effects of the treatments, this study highlights potential benefits of vitamin C in enhancing sleep for individuals affected by OSAS—supporting the idea that managing oxidative stress may improve sleep outcomes.
7
Vitamin C may improve endothelial health
Microvascular endothelial dysfunction in obstructive sleep apnea is caused by oxidative stress and improved by continuous positive airway pressure therapy.
We set out to understand the connection between oxidative stress and microvascular endothelial function in people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), particularly focusing on the possible benefits of vitamin C treatment. This study involved patients with and without OSA, using medications to measure their endothelial function before and after a vitamin C infusion.
Our findings indicated that endothelial dysfunction is closely linked to increased oxidative stress in OSA patients. When we introduced vitamin C, an antioxidant, we observed improvements in endothelial function. This suggests that oxidative stress plays a significant role in the complications associated with OSA, and that vitamin C may help mitigate some of these effects.
Notably, after six months of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment for OSA, we noted further improvements, reinforcing the idea that managing OSA can enhance endothelial health primarily by reducing oxidative stress. However, we acknowledge that while vitamin C showed promise, more controlled studies are needed to fully establish its effects on sleep apnea.
References
Zhang Q, Qi X, Wang Z, Zhang D, Wang T. The Association Between Dietary Vitamin C and Sleep Disorders: A Cohort Study Based on UK Biobank. Nutrients. 2024;16. doi:10.3390/nu16213661
Boppana TK, Mittal S, Madan K, Tiwari P, Mohan A, et al. Antioxidant therapies for obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Breath. 2024;28:1513. doi:10.1007/s11325-024-03050-z
Moya EA, Arias P, Iturriaga R. Nitration of MnSOD in the Carotid Body and Adrenal Gland Induced by Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia. J Histochem Cytochem. 2018;66:753. doi:10.1369/0022155418776229
Lira AB, de Sousa Rodrigues CF. Evaluation of oxidative stress markers in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and additional antioxidant therapy: a review article. Sleep Breath. 2016;20:1155. doi:10.1007/s11325-016-1367-3
Randolph BJ, Patel HM, Muller MD. Ascorbic acid attenuates the pressor response to voluntary apnea in postmenopausal women. Physiol Rep. 2015;3. doi:10.14814/phy2.12384
Celec P, Jurkovičová I, Buchta R, Bartík I, Gardlík R, et al. Antioxidant vitamins prevent oxidative and carbonyl stress in an animal model of obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep Breath. 2013;17:867. doi:10.1007/s11325-012-0728-9
Büchner NJ, Quack I, Woznowski M, Stähle C, Wenzel U, et al. Microvascular endothelial dysfunction in obstructive sleep apnea is caused by oxidative stress and improved by continuous positive airway pressure therapy. Respiration. 2011;82:409. doi:10.1159/000323266
Cox SE, L'Esperance V, Makani J, Soka D, Hill CM, et al. Nocturnal haemoglobin oxygen saturation variability is associated with vitamin C deficiency in Tanzanian children with sickle cell anaemia. Acta Paediatr. 2011;100:594. doi:10.1111/j.1651-2227.2010.02078.x
Singh TD, Patial K, Vijayan VK, Ravi K. Oxidative stress and obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. Indian J Chest Dis Allied Sci. 2009;51:217.
Del Rio R, Moya EA, Iturriaga R. Carotid body and cardiorespiratory alterations in intermittent hypoxia: the oxidative link. Eur Respir J. 2010;36:143. doi:10.1183/09031936.00158109
Grebe M, Eisele HJ, Weissmann N, Schaefer C, Tillmanns H, et al. Antioxidant vitamin C improves endothelial function in obstructive sleep apnea. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2006;173:897.