Antioxidants
There is good evidence that eating more antioxidant-rich foods can help promote good health and prevent the risk of developing some diseases. But recent media attention has questioned the health benefits of antioxidants as a supplement to our diet. These reports have highlighted that more research is needed into exactly how antioxidants in food are linked to health, and whether antioxidant supplementation provides either benefit or detriment to a healthy diet.
What is known is that foods like fruit and vegetables contain the right mix of antioxidants, in the right amounts, for health benefits. These foods often also contain other beneficial food components. But scientists have not reached a consensus on the mechanism of how antioxidants in these foods provide health benefits. And there is conflicting evidence as to whether antioxidants supplements are beneficial. In fact, some studies have found very high doses of individual antioxidants may be harmful.
DAA welcomes more research on how antioxidants exert their health benefits, and believes there is no ‘silver bullet’ for good health. The key is a well-balanced, varied diet (which will provide the body with a range of antioxidants) and a healthy lifestyle.