Antioxidants - Yea or Nay?

by Nutrition Focus

The public seems to get only one side of the story about antioxidants and health from news media, with the implication that the more the better. However, researchers are not unanimous on this topic. In fact, there have been many discussions and editorials questioning the safety of large doses of antioxidants.

A typical piece appeared in the March 1999 American Journal of Public Health. Three scientists from France wrote an editorial entitled "Antioxidant Vitamins and Cardiovascular Disease: Dr Jekyll or Mr Hyde?" They cited several large studies that found harm from large doses of beta-carotene. They also pointed out some of the contradictions in the story linking high doses of vitamin E with protection against heart disease, specifically that the same degree of protection was found with a dose of 17 IU (from diet) and 208 IU (obtainable only from supplements).

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

The debate continues whether single antioxidants in high dose provide substantial benefits and are safe for long term use. Some scientists believe that a combination of antioxidants in the highest range of nutritional intake may meet these necessary conditions. Such a test is in progress, but it will be years before this answer is in. Remember that oxidation products are used to kill bacteria that invade the body; some oxidation products are necessary for proper health.

Copyright 2004 - Nutrition News Focus

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