Comparison of serum concentrations of α-tocopherol and β-carotene in a cross-sectional sample of obese and nonobese children (NHANES III)

Abstract

Introduction: Low intake of the fat-soluble antioxidants α-tocopherol and β-carotene has been linked to greater risks of cardiovascular disease in epidemiologic studies. Obesity in adults is associated with lower levels of α-tocopherol and β-carotene, which may contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease associated with obesity. Aim: To examine serum concentrations of fat-soluble antioxidants in a large, nationally representative sample of obese and nonobese children. Methods: Serum levels of α-tocopherol and β-carotene were measured in 6139 children between the ages of 6 and 19 years enrolled in the National Health and Examination Survey, cycle III. Serum α-tocopherol levels were adjusted for fasting cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Nutritional intake was assessed by 24-hour dietary recall and food frequency questionnaires. Results: Serum levels of β-carotene were significantly lower in obese children compared with those found in normal weight children (0.22 ± 0.14 μmol/L vs 0.29 ± 0.17 μmol/L, P < .001). After adjustment was done for serum triglyceride and cholesterol levels, α-tocopherol levels were also significantly lower in obese children (2.68 ± 0.59 vs 3.17 ± 0.60, P < .001). Approximately one half of obese children had serum levels of β-carotene and adjusted α-tocopherol in the lowest quartile compared with approximately one quarter of normal weight children ( P < .001). No significant differences were seen in reported intake of β-carotene, α-tocopherol, fruit, or vegetables between obese and nonobese children. Conclusion: Reduced serum levels of fat-soluble antioxidants are present in obese children. (J Pediatr 1999;134:160-5)