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ARS Home » Northeast Area » Boston, Massachusetts » Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center On Aging » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #57189

Title: DIETARY VITAMIN E IN OXIDATIVE STRESS AND AGING

Author
item MEYDANI MOHSEN - TUFTS-HNRCA

Submitted to: Oxidative Stress and Aging Symposium
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/1/1994
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: Not required.

Technical Abstract: Aging processes are influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Evidence suggests that sedentary lifestyles, alcohol, and drug use and malnutrition may contribute to the aging rate and age-associated diseases. Oxidative stress and aging processes share common ground in biochemical and functional changes that occur with strenuous exercise, alcohol intake, and high intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids without adequate antioxidant protection. These extrinsic factors, together with inadequate or unbalanced dietary antioxidants during the lifespan augment the free radical formation and significantly contribute to accelerated aging and age-associated diseases. Evidence suggests that dietary antioxidants such as vitamin E can prevent oxidative stress induced by these extrinsic factors. The elderly may further benefit from changing their lifestyle and supplemental intake of dietary vitamin E to reduce oxidative stress, improve certain bodily functions and reduce their risk of morbidity and mortality.