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MONDAY, Aug. 2 (HealthDayNews) -- Antioxidant supplements have little or no effect in prevention or treatment of cardiovascular disease.

So says an American Heart Association (AHA) science advisory published Aug. 3 in the online issue of Circulation.

"At this time, there is little reason to advise that individuals take antioxidant supplements to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease," Penny Kris-Etherton, lead author of the AHA panel that wrote the advisory, said in a prepared statement. Kris-Etherton is a professor of Nutrition at Pennsylvania State University.

The AHA panel recommends that people get their antioxidants from foods by eating a diet that includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, legumes, poultry, and lean meats.

The panel reviewed research conducted on antioxidants between 1994 and 2002.

"While the research shows that antioxidant supplements have no benefit, the role oxidative stress plays in the development and progression of heart disease has yet to be clarified. We still know too little about the oxidative mechanisms in humans and lack biochemical markers with which to evaluate antioxidants," Kris-Etherton said.

"We know that diets high in fruit and vegetables are associated with decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. Thus, following a diet consistent with the American Heart Association's dietary guidelines is recommended. In addition, achieving and maintaining a health body weight and being physically active are important to reduce cardiovascular disease risk," Kris-Etherton said.

More information

The American Dietetic Association has more about antioxidants.

(SOURCE: American Heart Association, news release, Aug. 2, 2004)

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