July/August 2006
HEALTH BYTES

Carotenoids reduce DNA damage

A recent study found that postmenopausal women who took carotenoid supplements had less damage to their DNA than those who took a placebo. Carotenoids are a type of antioxidant found in red, orange, yellow and dark green fruits and vegetables, such as mangoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, red peppers, and dark leafy green vegetables. In the double-blind study, volunteers received either 4 milligrams beta-carotene, 4 milligrams lutein and 4 milligrams lycopene; 12 milligrams of beta-carotene, lutein, or lycopene alone; or a placebo. After 15 days, researchers found significantly less DNA damage in women who received mixed carotenoids or beta-carotene alone. By the end of the eight-week study, all groups who received carotenoid supplements showed less DNA damage.

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, January 2006