While the report stopped short of concluding that evidence is sufficiently consistent to permit recommended intakes based on disease prevention, it did recognize the wide range of safe intakes for antioxidant vitamins and issued higher Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for vitamin C and E.

      New RDAs for antioxidant nutrients are: vitamin C; 75 milligrams (mg) for women and 90 mg for men; vitamin E, 15 mg; and selenium, 55 micrograms (mcg).

      The report stated that there is "reason to expect the antioxidant vitamins (C and E) should decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease." The report also provided information on the large amount of research devoted to the cause and potential prevention of cardiovascular disease, particularly the hypothesis that oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a causative agent. The report concluded that vitamin E does inhibit LDL oxidation and could also affect the health of arteries in other ways. In addition, the report noted that it is reasonable to expect that vitamin C would reduce oxidative damage to the eye, thus lessening the risk of cataracts and other conditions.

      The NAS report also established tolerable upper intake levels (ULs) for vitamin C (2,000 mg), vitamin E (1,000 mg) and selenium (400 mcg). ULs for adults are set to protect the most sensitive individuals of the general population.

      John Cordaro, CRN's president and chief executive officer, commented on the report and noted, "We were optimistic that the scientific evidence on these antioxidants would permit the establishment of higher RDAs. However, the science is definitely moving in the right direction and we're pleased to add the NAS report to the totality of ever-growing scientific data." Mr. Cordaro added, "Consumers can continue to have confidence in antioxidant supplements, when used according to label instructions."

      A copy of the NAS report is available on the following website: http://national-academies.org under Top News/Supplement Savvy.

      The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) was founded in 1973 and represents approximately 100 companies in the dietary supplement industry, including ingredient suppliers and manufacturers. Members include manufacturers of national brands of dietary supplements as well as several large manufacturers of the store brands available in most supermarkets, drug stores, health food stores, and super stores. CRN members adhere to a strong Code of Ethics, comply with dosage limits and manufacture dietary supplements to high quality standards under good manufacturing practices.