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Rethinking anti-oxidants

Researchers have discovered a novel probucol-analog that effectively protects against atherosclerosis without the same side effects as its predecessor. This breakthrough compound induces an anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory pathway in blood vessel walls, offering new hope for treating people with or at risk of heart disease.

Changing trends in herbal supplement use

The study found that dietary supplement use increased from 14.2% in 1998-1999 to 18.8% in 2002, with a rise in multivitamin products containing antioxidants like lutein and lycopene. The acceptance of herbal supplements has become more mainstream, and marketing strategies have expanded to prevent chronic diseases.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2005

Antioxidant supplementation may reduce incidence of cancer in men

A comprehensive study of 13,017 French adults found no significant reduction in cancer incidence with antioxidant supplements, but men showed a 31% lower risk of developing cancer than women. The researchers suggest that supplementation may be effective in men due to their lower baseline levels of certain antioxidants.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 22, 2004

Enzyme containing selenium may promote type 2 diabetes

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that overexpressing a selenium-containing enzyme in mice led to insulin resistance and obesity. The researchers suggest that antioxidants, like selenium, may be harmful by neutralizing free radicals necessary for insulin signaling.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2004

Honey for your health

Researchers found a direct correlation between honey consumption and elevated polyphenolic antioxidants in human plasma. The study's findings support existing evidence that honey may provide protective antioxidant compounds, contributing to overall health.

Cocoa froths with cancer-preventing compounds

Researchers at Cornell University found that cocoa contains nearly twice the antioxidants of red wine and up to three times those found in green tea. The high content of phenolic phytochemicals, or flavonoids, is responsible for this superior antioxidant activity.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 18, 2003

Thanksgiving: A time for healthful eating?

Recent research findings highlight the health benefits of traditional Thanksgiving dishes such as cranberries, which can aid recovery from stroke, and may protect brain cells. Antioxidant-rich foods like hot cocoa tops both red wine and tea in cancer-fighting compounds.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 11, 2003

Of mice and memory

Researchers at USC developed synthetic enzymes that can combat oxidative damage, leading to improved memory in mice. The findings suggest these compounds may be more effective than traditional antioxidants in humans and could potentially treat various diseases with an oxidative component.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2003

Raisins may find use in jerky

Researchers at Oregon State University discovered that ground raisins can inhibit bacterial growth in beef jerky as effectively as sodium nitrite, a common preservative. The study found that adding raisins to jerky reduces fat content, increases antioxidants and fiber, making it a more appealing option for consumers on low-sodium diets.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateMay 9, 2003

Bread crust and stuffing rich in healthy antioxidants

A study by American Chemical Society researchers identified a novel type of antioxidant called pronyl-lysine in bread crust, which is eight times more abundant than in the crumb. This compound is likely to be more effective when bread is broken down into smaller pieces and baked, such as in stuffing.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 4, 2002

Tomato packs more cancer-fighting punch

Researchers at Purdue University and the USDA have developed tomatoes with significantly higher levels of lycopene, a key cancer-fighting antioxidant. The genetically modified tomatoes contain up to 3.5 times more lycopene than conventional varieties, which may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 18, 2002