The Antioxidant Vitamins
OXIDANT

Possible MS Help
Vitamin D

A free radical, also called an oxidant, is a molecule
that contains an unpaired electron.
The unpaired electron is highly unstable and generally allows
free radicals to react with other nearby substances.
Antioxidant vitamins include vitamin A
(or its safer form, beta-carotene), vitamin C, and vitamin E.
As the name implies, antioxidants tend to decrease
the damage caused by oxidants or free radicals.
Antioxidant vitamins are generally available in fruits and vegetables.

Preliminary evidence suggests that the damage caused
by free radicals may be involved in the disease process in MS.
A few studies using an animal model of MS suggest
that antioxidants may even be therapeutic.
But the value of these animal studies is limited.
There are no well-documented published studies
of people with MS that show a clinical benefit
related to antioxidant supplements.

The safety of taking antioxidants for people with MS
has not been established either.
One small, five-week study indicates
that antioxidants are safe for people with MS,
but the study is too small and short to be conclusive.

There is an important theoretical risk to consider.
Antioxidant vitamins stimulate the immune system
in laboratory experiments and in some groups of people.
In MS, where an overactive immune system is responsible
for disease, such stimulation may be dangerous.

In summary, there is limited evidence suggesting
that antioxidants may be beneficial, and there is
also some evidence suggesting potential harm.
The most reasonable course may be for people
to obtain antioxidants by consuming 2 to 4 servings
of fruits and 3 to 4 servings of vegetables every day.
If antioxidant supplements are to be used,
it may be best to use them only in moderation.

Specific Issues Regarding the Antioxidant Vitamins


Source(s)
Herbs Rule!!!!

Draconian

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