| Efficacy of Antioxidants Antioxidants protect normal cells and other tissues by fighting free radicals and the oxidative reaction that free radicals cause. Antioxidant nutrients include beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, selenuim, copper, zinc and bioflavonoids. There are now more than 200 studies that show antioxidants can help decrease the risk of developing cancer. One of the most recent investigations took place in Linxian, China. Researchers from the Cancer Institute of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences teamed up with researchers at the United States National Cancer Institute. They studied nearly 30,000 adults, randomized over a five-year period into four different group receiving different nutrients during that period. Here are the results of the studies: ·It was the first large-scale intervention trial in a prospective randomized fashion to demonstrate that three antioxidant nutrients together-beta-carotene, vitamin E, and selenium—significantly reduced total mortality, and especially from all cancers and particularly stomach cancer. ·These antioxidant nutrients decreased the risk of cancer in humans. ·These antioxidants nutrients substantially reduced the prevalence of cataracts in the older patients (aged 65 to 74 years). ·These antioxidant nutrients reduced mortality from stroke. Concerns about beta-carotene specifically need to be addressed. There have been reports that beta-carotene increased the incidence of lung cancer in heavy smokers who drank alcohol and were exposed to asbestos. Consider this: ·Over 200 studies have demonstrated that beta-carotene is safe and can lower the risk of developing cancer and cardiovascular disease. ·All intervention studies show that beta-carotene and other nutrients can decrease cancer rates and cancer progression. ·A total of 22 epidemiological studies, which included 400,000 smokers and nonsmokers, have shown that those who had a high blood level of beta-carotene had a lower incidence and mortality of lung cancer. None of these studies reported any association with an increased incidence of lung cancer. In fact, the reduction in risk was even more pronounced in smoker than nonsmokers. ·The information that beta-carotene worsens lung cancer patients was never subjected to peer review, which means no scientists have been given the chance to review the information. ·The principal investigator has publicly said that the findings are too preliminary to discuss and the data were not statistically significant. ·The smokers who had high beta-carotene levels at the start of the study had the lowest incidence of lung cancer. ·Most of the study participants were alcoholics, and all of them ate a high-fat diet. Both risk factors dramatically and independently increase the risk of cancer. ·The fact remains, beta-carotene is a potent antioxidant, it enhances immune system function and it is very safe and non-toxic. Jan/Feb 1999 issue of the International Journal of Integrative Medicine –vol.1, No. 1. Nutrients and Cancer Treatment, Charles B. Simone, M.Ms., M.D. Dr. Simone is a medical oncologist and tumor immunologist. |
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