Effects of Lifepak® Supplementation on Antioxidant Status and Ldl- Oxidation in Healthy Non-smokers

Background: Although there is substantial evidence for antioxidant effects of individual nutrients, such as vitamins C and E, little research has been done to show the antioxidant efficacy of nutritionally complete micronutrient supplements. Objective: This study examined whether a comprehensive multivitamin/mineral supplement (MVMS; LifePak) improves antioxidant status and resistance to LDL oxidation in healthy non-smokers. Methods: In this double-blind, randomized crossover study, 50 subjects received MVMS and placebo (PL) for 6 weeks with a 6-week washout period. MVMS provided vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids and flavonoids among other nutrients. Results: MVMS significantly increased serum concentrations of ascorbic acid (from 68.1 to 94.3 μmol/L) β-carotene (from 335 to 716 nmol/L), α-carotene (from 77 to 592 nmol/L), and vitamin E (α-tocopherol, from 20.0 to 36.9 μmol/L), with no changes in PL treatment. MVMS significantly decreased LDL oxidizability, as the lag time was prolonged (by 17 %), and oxidation rate was reduced without changes with PL treatment. Conclusions: MVMS significantly increased serum antioxidants and decreased LDL oxidizability. Results suggest that MVMS supplementation may have cardiovascular and antioxidant benefits in healthy non-smokers.