Jim McAfee's Blog Spot

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Adolescents & Carotenoids

    A recent study found that low intake of carotenoids and vitamin C by adolescents was inversely associated with risk of developing metabolic syndrome. This is a prediabetic condition associated with eratic blood sugars and excessive inflammation in the tissues. It is no secret that most adolescents eat few foods containing carotenoids. The most commonly consumed vegetable among young people is potatoes in the form of French fries. Potatoes do not contain a significant quantity of carotenoids.
Reference: 
Beydoun MA, Canas JA, et al, Serum Antioxidant Concentrations and Metabolic Syndrome Are Associated among U.S. Adolescents in Recent National Surveys, J Nutr, 2012 Jul 18.

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