Researchers have found that a single scuba air dive (30 meters depth for 30 minutes) is enough to induce mild changes in cardiac function and a significant decrease in endothelial function. Whether these effects are long-term, and thus pose serious threat to divers’ health, is not yet certain.
However a new study, published in The Journal of Physiology, shows that acute oral intake of largely accepted antioxidants Vitamin C and E prior to a scuba dive can reduce alterations in cardiovascular function, particularly acute endothelial dysfunction. Authors suggest that pre-dive intake of antioxidant vitamins may prevent some of the negative effects of diving on vascular function.
Can antioxidants protect scuba divers?
Take Your Vitamins Before Scuba Diving
or for the those who want to read the complete article.
The effects of acute oral antioxidants on diving-induced alterations in human cardiovascular function -- Obad et al. 578 (3): 859 -- The Journal of Physiology Online