Many weight room regulars know their workouts result in exercise induced muscle damage. The repair of muscle tissue during the recovery phase is where size and strength gains are realized. Amino acids from protein play an important part in recovery, and a study published in the journal Free Radical Biology and Medicineexplains vitamin E’s role.

According to researchers, without vitamin E the plasma membrane surrounding muscle cells wouldn’t properly repair itself. Every cell in your body has a plasma membrane, and vitamin E helps control not only the healing action, but what moves in and out.

True Strength Moment: The importance of the macronutrients protein, carbohydrates and fats is fairly well understood. This research suggests you shouldn’t underestimate the value of micronutrients in the form of vitamins and essential minerals.

via@optimumnutrition