Vitamin C and vitamin B1 for reduced markers of heart damage and inflammation after heart surgery Original paper

In this trial, 64 participants received 1,000 mg of vitamin C plus 100 mg of thiamine (vitamin B1) or 1,000 mg of vitamin C only. Markers of systemic and cardiac inflammation were recorded, including C-reactive protein, interleukin 6 white blood cells, creatine kinase-MB, troponins, and lactate dehydrogenase. Cardiac circulation and function were also assessed.

Compared to the vitamin C alone group, the vitamin C and thiamine group had significantly lower levels of creatine kinase-MB, troponins, and lactate dehydrogenase. There were no differences in cardiac circulation or function; however, the participants in the combination group had a lower incidence of arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and required less dobutamine (a medication used to improve cardiac function).