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Research: CALZADA and colleagues, D
Listed in Issue 28
Abstract
CALZADA and colleagues, Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, UMDS-Guys Hospital, London UK write that there is mounting evidence that antioxidants may help prevent coronary heart disease and modulate certain thrombotic events including platelet adhesion. The authors conducted a double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled study to study the effect of antioxidants upon platelet function. @m:METHODS: 40 healthy volunteers, aged 20-50 years were supplemented daily with 300 mg vitamin E, 250 mg vitamin C or 15 mg beta-carotene for 8 weeks. @r: Vitamin E supplementation resulted in a significant increase in platelet alpha-tocopherol level which closely reflected the increased plasma alpha-tocopherol level. Platelet function was significantly decreased by vitamin E. Vitamin C did not affect platelet function, although there was a trend towards a decreased platelet aggregability and an increased sensitivity to the inhibitor PGE1. Beta-carotene supplement did not result in any significant changes in platelet function. @c: Vitamin E supplementation resulted in significant changes to platelet function; however changes with Vitamin C and Beta-carotene were not significant.
Background
Methodology
Results
Conclusion
References
Calzada C et al. The influence of antioxidant nutrients on platelet function in healthy volunteers. Atherosclerosis 128(1): 97-105. Jan 3 1997.
Comment
Vitamin C supplementation resulted in a trend towards decreased platelet aggregability in this experiment. It is hardly surprising that such modest amounts of vitamin C, merely 250 mg did not result in more dramatic changes. Vitamin C is used by the body as required, according to the amount of stress or illness even up to grams per day. Daily dosages of at least 500 mg and possibly 1000g might provide a better reflection of its ability to modify platelet function. Additionally, the use of healthy volunteers might not result in the type of therapeutic effect which might be seen in people depleted of vitamin C. The desired intervention is patients with increased platelet adhesion. @i:24
