NEW EVIDENCE ON ANTIOXIDANT NUTRIENTS - GUIDELINES FOR HEALTH-EDUCATION

Conflicting information abounds regarding the antioxidant benefits of vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene. In the midst of contradicting information regarding these nutrients, antioxidants (in supplement for m) are being aggressively promoted by supplement manufacturers as mira cle products for preventing disease and enhancing health. Health educa tors are sometimes called upon to provide recommendations regarding an tioxidant nutrients. This paper discusses some of the accumulating evi dence on these nutrients and their antioxidant actions. It also presen ts information to guide health educators in responding to questions ab out antioxidants.