High intake of fruit and vegetables is related to low oxidative stress and inflammation in a group of patients with type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Background: Patients with type 2 diabetes have increased levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. A high
fruit and vegetable intake may be beneficial.
Objective: To study whether fruit and vegetable intake and levels of plasma antioxidants relate to markers of
oxidative stress and inflammation in a group of patients with type 2 diabetes. Further, to investigate whether
plasma antioxidants are good biomarkers for intake of fruit and vegetables.
Design: Patients with type 2 diabetes were studied. Their dietary intake and levels of plasma antioxidants, and
markers of oxidative stress and inflammation were analysed.
Results: Fruit and vegetable intake was inversely related to oxidative stress. Plasma carotenoids were
negatively correlated with inflammation. The plasma levels of a-carotene and b-carotene showed strongly
positive associations with fruit and vegetable intake.
Conclusions: The results suggest that fruit and vegetable intake may decrease oxidative stress and
inflammation in this group of patients. An increased intake of fruit and vegetables can therefore be beneficial
for patients with type 2 diabetes, since these patients are documented to have raised oxidative stress and
inflammation. The study support the usefulness of plasma a-carotene and b-carotene as biomarkers for fruit
and vegetable intake.