Score another one for food versus pills: Orange and blackcurrant
juices reduced levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of
inflammation associated with heart disease and diabetes risk, by 11%
in a new Danish study, while vitamin E supplements showed no
benefit. Researchers compared the juices, vitamin E, a sugar drink and
placebo in four different combinations in two 28-day trials on 48
patients with peripheral artery disease. The scientists concluded, "It is
the mixture of several agents in fruit and vegetables—here notable
fruit juices—that affect the arterial wall; thus patients are better off
eating 'whole' fruits and vegetables (juices) than specific
supplements."—British Journal of Nutrition |