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| July 12 | |
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Type II Diabetes |
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People with diabetes are at an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Now a new study suggests that Vitamin E may help reduce the risk. Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern gave people with Type II diabetes and non-diabetics 1200 international units, or IU, of Vitamin E daily for three months. They found that Vitamin E reduced the activity of a cell called a monocyte. Monocytes can cause changes to occur in the arteries that can cause heart disease and stroke. It appears that the monocyte is more active in people with Type II diabetes than non-diabetics, so reducing the action of this cell could have very significant effects. These findings contribute to the evidence that Vitamin E can help prevent heart disease. According to published data, the most effective dose is 100 IU or more—less than 100 does not seem to be beneficial. The studies also suggest that one would need to take Vitamin E for at least two years to gain the benefit. And Vitamin E may slow the progression of coronary artery disease, if taken early on, but it’s too early to know for sure. You can find Vitamin E in wheat germ, corn, nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables, and vegetable oils. If you want to take a supplement, speak with your doctor, because some medicines, like blood thinners, can interact with the vitamin. |
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What about other vitamins like Vitamin C? Actually, the news is not so good. Studies don’t seem to support a strong role for Vitamin C in reducing heart disease. Interestingly, foods containing beta-carotene may be beneficial, but using beta-carotene supplements by themselves may not. So the best bet is to eat a healthy diet, with lots of fruits and vegetables—you’ll not only get your vitamins, but you’ll be eating a high-fiber, low fat diet, which is a sure way to reduce your risk. | |
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RESOURCES:
Circulation. 2000;102:191.
American Heart Association |
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