Antioxidant study ignores scientific evidence

    TORONTO, Feb. 28 /CNW/ - A meta-analysis undermining the benefits of
antioxidant supplements in a new study published in the February 28, 2007
issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association ignores the large
body of scientific evidence supporting the benefits of antioxidants, says the
Canadian Health Food Association, a national trade association representing
Canada's natural products industry.
    "A growing number of evidence-based studies continue to show the health
benefits of antioxidants and cannot be discounted. They need to be considered
when drawing conclusions from this meta-analysis," says Anne Wilkie,
Vice-President and Head of Regulatory Affairs, Canadian Health Food
Association (CHFA.)
    "The study only serves to confuse healthy consumers who may take
antioxidants," she says.
    The researchers themselves acknowledge their analysis of previous studies
has several limitations, including combining studies where participants were
vastly different from each other (healthy versus diseased populations); where
dosages used varied significantly; where the length of time of taking the
supplements and the follow-up differed among the trials, and the use of
varying definitions of "all-cause" mortality in the trials. Meta-analyses are
valuable tools when the included studies are similar in design and study
populations.
    "Healthy consumers should continue to rely on antioxidant supplements for
the benefits they confer," says Wilkie. "This meta-analysis does not provide
convincing scientific evidence that antioxidant supplements do not provide
potential health benefits."
    The CHFA reminds consumers that Health Canada has established monographs
with dose information and indications for the antioxidants beta-carotene,
vitamin A, and vitamin C and has not reported any risks in the use of these
supplements. In fact, the federal government introduced the Natural Health
Products Regulations in 2004 to ensure natural health products, such as
vitamins, sold in Canada were safe, had evidence to support their claims and
contained what was on the label.

    The Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) is Canada's largest national
trade association representing the organic and natural products industry. Its
members include over 85 per cent of the retailers, suppliers, wholesalers,
distributors, and manufacturers that are involved in a variety of industry
sub-sectors such as vitamin and mineral supplements, herbals, homeopathics,
sports nutrition products, natural foods and organic products. Our members'
products support Canadians seeking optimal health and quality of life.
    The CHFA exists to empower and support our members by acting on their
behalf to secure a fair regulatory environment, hosting forums that showcase
innovative products, delivering ongoing vital and relevant education, and
providing valuable member services. This ensures that our industry is
sustainable and stronger both culturally and financially.

For further information: Natalie Cajic, Communications Coordinator, at
[phone] ext. 234, 1-800-661-4510 or [e-mail]