Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Carotenoid and Selenium Levels Linked to C-Reactive Protein

INTRODUCTION
Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have determined that the higher the concentration of retinol (vitamin A), vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, and selenium, the lower the concentration of C-reactive protein, high levels of which are associated with a number of diseases, including heart disease.

Researchers used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III to study the levels of certain vitamins and nutrients as well as the C-Reactive Protein levels in 14,519 men and women 20 years old and older. The higher the concentration of C-reactive protein in the subjects, the lower the levels of retinol, vitamin C, alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, lycopene, and selenium. The association between C-reactive protein levels and that of the vitamins and minerals was significant.

The researchers believe the inflammation that occurs in conjunction with increased C-reactive protein levels may deplete antioxidant levels by producing reactive oxygen species (free radicals).

According to the researchers, 'Whether increased consumption of foods rich in antioxidants or supplementation with antioxidants can provide health benefits to people characterized by elevated C-reactive protein concentrations may be worthy of further study.'

Reference:

Ford ES, Liu S, Mannino DM, Giles WH, Smith SJ. C-reactive protein concentration and concentrations of blood vitamins, carotenoids, and selenium among United States adults. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2003 Sep;57(9):1157-63.

Anyone who wants to ensure an adequate intake of the above nutrients can consume a multivitamin (VRP's Optimum 6), or a number of other supplements such as VRP's C-Plus, E-team. Caroteam™ and Essential Minerals.

1760-C Plus,Vit C formula, 90 cap
9022-CAROTeam, 60 cap
3111-E-Team, 60 cap
1871-Essential Minerals 90 cap
3310-Optimum 6 180cap


The information in this article is not intended to provide personal medical advice, which should be obtained from a medical professional, and has not been approved by the U.S. FDA.

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