09.01.04
In the August 3rd issue of Circulation, members of the Nutrition Committee of the American Heart Association (AHA), Dallas, TX, concluded that evidence from several studies points to the need to get antioxidants from food rather than supplements. The 1999 AHA Science Advisory recommended that the general population consume a balanced diet with an emphasis on antioxidant-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, advice that was consistent with the AHA Dietary Guidelines at the time. In the absence of data from randomized, controlled clinical trials, no recommendations were made with regard to the use of antioxidant supplements. Over the last several years, however, the Nutrition Committee said, “Collectively, for the most part, clinical trials have failed to demonstrate a beneficial effect of antioxidant supplements on cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality.” As a result, it concluded, “At this time, the scientific evidence supports recommending consumption of a diet high in food sources of antioxidants and other cardioprotective nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts, instead of antioxidant supplements to reduce the risk of CVD. It does not support the use of antioxidant vitamin supplements.” In response to this article, the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), Washington, D.C., said although it agrees that further research is needed, that in the meantime people whose dietary patterns include the regular use of antioxidant supplements have no reason to change those habits. Annette Dickinson, president of CRN, suggested, “The AHA seems to by trying to prematurely close the door on supplement use, even while more studies continue.”