Vitamins To Strengthen Tendons

Tendons are elastic, connective tissues that help to hold your muscles to your bones and joints. According to Duke Orthopaedics, the largest and strongest tendon in your body is your Achilles tendon -- the tendon that runs from your calf to your heel. Tendons can become strained or torn as the result of daily activities, exercise and sports. While injuries require the care of a doctor, vitamins may be able to help you strengthen your tendons.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A can help to promote the strength and health of your tendons, muscles, ligaments and soft tissues. The antioxidant properties of vitamin A help to protect your tendons from damage -- for example they help protect from damage should you twist your ankle. This vitamin can also help to repair damage caused to your tendons should you sustain and injury. Vitamin A can be supplemented and found in food sources. Food sources of vitamin A include carrots, leafy vegetables and sweet potatoes.

Vitamin B12

The vitamin B complex contains eight different vitamins, one of which is vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 helps to ensure that your body uses nutrients and minerals properly. Dietary protein -- consumed through the foods you eat -- is broken down by vitamin B12 into amino acids that your body can use. Protein is essential in the repair of damaged tendons as well as muscles. The proper breakdown of protein allows your body to more quickly recover from an injury. Vitamin B12 can be taken as a supplement. You can also consume this vitamin by eating meat and dairy products.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is known for its role in supporting the health of your immune system. However, vitamin C can also play a vital role in building strong and healthy tendons. Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that can help to aid in the repair of tendons as well as prevent infection should you sustain a severe tendon injury. Vitamin C also plays a role in stimulating the growth of collagen. Collagen is a protein that helps to build strong muscles and connective tissues -- including tendons -- in all parts of your body. You can take vitamin C as a supplement or receive vitamin C through the foods you consume. Food sources of vitamin C include strawberries, berries, tomatoes, sweet red peppers, cantaloupe and citrus fruits.

Vitamin E

Found in foods such as wheat germ, vegetable oils, corn, nuts and seeds, vitamin E is beneficial in building as well as repairing tendons. Vitamin E has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation -- much like an anti-inflammatory medication prescribed to you after an injury. The anti-inflammatory properties can also reduce pain and promote the healing of injured tendons. Vitamin E helps to increase circulation and produce red blood cells for all portions of your body -- including your tendons. The production of healthy cells can help to promote the growth of strong tendons. Vitamin E can also help to promote the healing of tendons that require surgical repair.