Vitamins May Reduce Children's Heart Disease Risk
Since stiffening of the arteries is an early sign of atherosclerosis, the scientists measured blood flow of the brachial artery to determine what effect, if any, the vitamins had on arterial elasticity. Taking the supplements was associated with significant improvements in blood vessel function, leading the scientists to conclude that the vitamins may prevent, and even reverse, arterial damage. Based on these results, the researchers speculate that the supplements protect the endothelium (blood vessel lining) by blocking free radicals, allowing the lining to release nitric oxide which causes the arteries to expand.
Circulation 2003 Sep 2;108(9):1059-63