Beta-carotene linked to reduced mortality risk in the elderly

In a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers have demonstrated an association between plasma carotene levels and lower death rates among the elderly. This prospective study involved 1168 elderly men and women who were followed for 10 years. After the follow-up period, researchers looked at causes of mortality in the study population. The subjects with higher plasma carotene concentrations had a lower overall mortality risk, and a lower risk of mortality from cancer and cardiovascular disease specifically. To put the results in context, researchers performed a meta-analysis of 5 studies on plasma antioxidants and all-cause mortality in elderly populations.

These findings are somewhat surprising since some of the previous supplemental trials have been negative or inconclusive. The researchers suggested that the confusing evidence so far may indicate that beta-carotene needs to be taken in concert with other antioxidants to have a beneficial effect on health.

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 82, No. 4, 879-886, October 2005

Possibly the most interesting part of the researchers' findings were that "the confusing evidence so far may indicate that beta-carotene needs to be taken in concert with other antioxidants to have a beneficial effect on health." We hear it everywhere: "Eat a balanced diet." While we should all aim for eating a balance diet, with plenty of natural fruits, vegetables, and whole-grains, it is often difficult to maintain such a diet at all times.

However difficult it may be to eat a balanced diet everyday, it is becoming easier to have a balanced intake of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients by taking a multivitamin. The editors of The Complete Guide to Whole Nutrition recommend taking USANA's Essentials or HealthPak 100 as your multi-vitamins, both of which can be found at www.WholeNutrition.USANA.com. Both USANA's Essentials and the HealthPak 100 can deliver 7,500 IU of Beta-Carotene -- which is so valuable when you consider all of the other vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants you can get from either of these products -- all working together to protect your body from free radicals.

Worried about eating a more balanced diet? You can also find nutritious bars, like TenX Antioxidant Blast or look in the Macro-Optimizers section at the WholeNutrition.USANA Online Store for Nutrimeal Shakes and Nutrition Bars, both of which are great, low-glycemic, low-fat meal replacements. Delicious, high in both fiber and protein, and packed with vitamins and minerals, you won't be disappointed by Nutrimeal products! There's a flavor for everyone!