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Increased fruit and vegetable consumption: potential health benefits
1Nutrition and Consumer Science Division, Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, NR4 7UA, UK. sue.southon@bbsrc.ac.uk
Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases : NMCD
|March 16, 2002
Summary
Carotenoid supplements did not improve LDL oxidation resistance. However, eating more fruits and vegetables rich in carotenoids increased resistance, and higher carotenoid levels were linked to less DNA damage.
Area of Science:
- Human nutrition
- Oxidative stress research
- Dietary antioxidants
Background:
- Oxidative damage to low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) and DNA is a significant health concern.
- Carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene, are known for their antioxidant properties in vitro.
- Understanding the in vivo effects of carotenoids on oxidative status and related health markers is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of increased carotenoid intake on oxidative and antioxidant status in humans across different European countries.
- To determine if in vitro antioxidant capabilities of specific carotenoids translate to improved LDL oxidation resistance in vivo.
- To explore the relationship between carotenoid consumption, plasma carotenoid levels, and protection against LDL and DNA oxidative damage.
Main Methods:
- A Core human study involving volunteers from Ireland, Northern Ireland, Spain, France, and The Netherlands.
- Comparison of oxidative and antioxidant status, vegetable and fruit consumption, and carotenoid intake.
- Assessment of response to increased carotenoid intake, including supplementation and consumption of carotenoid-rich foods.
- Complementary studies on carotenoid-rich food effects, absorbability, consumption barriers, and food content.
Main Results:
- Carotenoid supplementation did not enhance the oxidation resistance of LDL.
- Increased consumption of carotenoid-rich fruits and vegetables significantly improved LDL oxidation resistance.
- Higher pre-supplementation plasma concentrations of total and specific carotenoids were associated with reduced DNA damage.
Conclusions:
- Dietary intake of carotenoid-rich foods, rather than supplementation, appears to be more effective in improving LDL oxidation resistance.
- Higher circulating carotenoid levels are linked to better protection against DNA oxidative damage.
- Public health strategies should focus on promoting the consumption of carotenoid-rich fruits and vegetables.