Antioxidant claims need sound science

There's a new Dorian Gray film showing at cinemas. I love this story Dorian stays young, beautiful and virile whilst his portrait in the attic turns old. We all know that this is a supernatural story, but the popularity of super, natural ingredients like antioxidants continues to soar. But do they keep us young and beautiful?

Leatherhead Food Research data shows that the world functional antioxidants market is increasing annually by around 3%, and was valued at $447M in 2008. So consumers must perceive some benefits.

Antioxidants cover a huge number of phytochemicals, including phenolics, flavonoids and vitamins. Epidemiological studies have linked increased dietary intake of antioxidants from fruits and vegetables to reduced risks of a range of diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

A study reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, indicated that the cells of multivitamin users may have a younger biological age than cells from non-users. In contrast, professor Brian Ratcliffe of Robert Gordon University recently dismissed vitamin supplements as a waste of money.

So what's the truth about antioxidants? I agree that a diet rich in fruit and vegetables is good for you and some studies indicate beneficial effects of antioxidants. However, studies also show that when such antioxidants have been extracted and put into supplements the results are less convincing. I am also cynical about 'total antioxidant' claims. It is the bioavailability of antioxidants that is important. That's why appropriate human intervention studies are necessary to support health claims.

Having said all that, I was attracted to the findings of a recent study at the University of Science, Malaysia, indicating that increased intake of Vitamin E could reverse male pattern balding. Should I give it a try?