Phenolic antioxidants epidemiological studies

In vitro studies have pointed to the antioxidant activity of many fruit and vegetable phenolics. To ascertain whether these substances play a real role in the prevention of oxidative-originated diseases in vivo, other considerations should be taken into account. We review epidemiological studies on the correlation between the dietary intake of phenolics and the prevention of cardiovascular disease. In addition, we look at studies on phenolic bioavailability and metabolism, which indicate whether fruit and vegetable antioxidants that show activity in vitro are absorbed and may, therefore, have an antioxidant effect in the tissues and so help prevent atherosclerosis [137]. 

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