Results showed a mean increase of free radicals over baseline of 129 percent, 175 percent and 138 percent at the three sampling times, respectively. Levels of several proinflammatory indicators also increased significantly, while the level of a factor that inhibits inflammation was reduced.

Four additional studies further defined the proinflammatory cascade initiated by an influx of glucose alone and of an infusion of fatty acids. These studies also showed that both sugar and fat caused a reduction in the ability of vessels to expand and contract in response to changes in blood flow, actions crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure and blood flow to vital organs.

In yet another study, eight subjects took 1,200 I.U. of vitamin E and 500 mg. of vitamin C before a glucose challenge, and on a subsequent occasion, took only glucose. Blood samples were taken before the challenges and at one, two and three hours after.

Results showed that levels of oxygen free radicals and two proinflammatory markers increased when glucose was taken alone, but did not increase when accompanied by the two antioxidant vitamins.

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Contact: Lois Baker
ljbaker@buffalo.edu
716-645-5000 x1417
University at Buffalo
16-Jun-2002