Abstract

CUERDA, C. et al. Antioxidants and diabetes mellitus: review of the evidence. Nutr. Hosp. [online]. 2011, vol.26, n.1, pp.68-78. ISSN 1699-5198.

Introduction: An increase in the oxidative stress and a decrease in the antioxidant levels have been described in diabetic patients, that have been related with the etiopathogenesis of diabetes and its chronic complications. Methods: We performed a non-systematic review to evaluate the relationship between oxidative stress and diabetes, and the possible effects of antioxidants in the prevention and treatment of diabetes and its complications. Results: The intervention studies including different antioxidants have not demonstrated any beneficial effect on cardiovascular and global morbimortality in different populations, including diabetic patients. Neither of these studies has demonstrated a beneficial effect of antioxidant supplementation on the prevention of diabetes. According to these studies, these substances can decrease lipid peroxidation, LDL-cholesterol particles oxidation and improve endothelial function and endothelial-dependent vasodilatation, without significant improvement in the metabolic control of these patients. Conclusions: The current evidence does not support the use of high doses of antioxidants on the prevention and treatment of diabetes and its complications.

Keywords : Oxidative stress; Diabetes mellitus; Antioxidant; Vitamin E; Vitamin C.

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