Dietary intake of antioxidants including vitamins C, E, and lycopene among normal weight and obese Native American adolescents

Antioxidants are well-known for anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce the risk of chronic disease and obesity. However, very little research has been done to examine antioxidant intake relative among adolescent minority populations, such as Native American adolescents.  Our study examined the significance of antioxidant intake, specifically of vitamins C, E, and lycopene, among Native American adolescents at an urban, residential high school in Southern California. Our study population consisted of 183 male and female Native American adolescents, ages 14-18 years, representing 43 tribes from across the United States. Students’ primary source of food was the school food service. Based on BMI measurements, the rate of obesity within our population was 38% for males and 40% for females, more than two-fold the national rate indicated by NHANESIII data. Antioxidant intake was evaluated using the Harvard School of Public Health Youth/Adolescent Questionnaire, a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. The differences in antioxidant intake between normal weight and obese students were examined. Results showed that intakes of vitamins C, E, and lycopene were significantly higher in normal weight than in obese weight students. These results suggest that dietary intake of antioxidants such as vitamins C, E, and lycopene should be increased among Native American adolescents. Further research is needed to identify opportunities to improve access and availability of rich sources of antioxidants including fruit, vegetable and salad-related products along with more effective ways for food service companies to incorporate foods rich in vitamins C, E, and lycopene into high school cafeteria menus.