Antioxidants and prevention of cardiovascular diseases
Brussaard, J.H.; van Dis, S.J.; van Poppel, G.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde 136(43): 2110-2114
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0028-2162 PMID: 1436171 Document Number: 398244
Sale of antioxidant capsules claiming to improve the immune system and help prevent diseases associated with ageing is considered. Free radical reactions are examined in relation to cardiovascular risk and epidemiological studies on antioxidants, specifically vitamins E and C, beta -carotene and selenium, are reviewed. It is concluded that further research is required, but that adoption of a varied diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables seems preferable to use of expensive preparations of doubtful efficacy. The normal healthy population could best avoid cardiovascular disease by following the dietary guidelines of the Netherlands Nutrition Council.