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March 27, 2008 |
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CAN CAFFEINE ACT AS A PROOXIDANT AS WELL AS A STIMULANT?
Many of us consume antioxidants such as vitamin E to prevent unwanted
oxidation in our bodies. Many of us also consume caffeine for its stimulating effects
in our bodies. But can caffeine promote oxidation as well as stimulation?
Investigators found that, in the laboratory, caffeine causes oxidative
damage to linoleic acid. Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid found in many
oils such as safflower, poppy seed and olive oil. In the body, linoleic acid molecules
are integral building blocks of the cell's membrane systems. The investigators recently
reported their findings in the Journal of Enzyme Inhibition and Medicinal Chemistry.
It is not known if this study, carried out in the laboratory, is applicable
to caffeine in the human body. Perhaps future studies will help answer this question. drpaulsupdates.org
Copyright © 2008 Dr. Paul's School of Tea and Health, LLC. See Update #65F for more information.
Send requests for copying and distribution to drpaulstea@npgcable.com.
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