抄録
"Antioxidant" is one of the most widely recognized scientific terms in today's society, where health and longevity are highly prized. The "common sense" notion that these compounds—found in fruits, vegetables, and supplements—are essential for preventing aging, cancer, and various other diseases has become deeply ingrained, significantly shaping our dietary habits and health consciousness. But to what extent is this "common sense" actually supported by science? After decades of complex and sometimes contradictory research, the scientific community has reached a clear consensus regarding antioxidants and cancer prevention, with major global health and cancer research organizations now delivering a unified message. Reflecting the results of large-scale intervention trials, the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) and the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) strongly recommend "not using supplements for cancer prevention," instead advocating for dietary patterns rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and pulses. Similarly, the American Cancer Society (ACS) emphasizes the importance of obtaining nutrients through healthy dietary patterns. The ACS also notes that particular caution is needed regarding supplement use during cancer treatment, as they may interfere with the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Based on research involving the Japanese population, the National Cancer Center (NCC) emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet, reducing salt intake, and ensuring that vegetable and fruit consumption "does not fall short." They do not recommend taking supplements for the purpose of cancer prevention. Specifically, daily consumption of a variety of vegetables and fruits is encouraged. For instance, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's "Health Japan 21" sets a target of 350 g of vegetables per day; a general guideline would be to consume approximately 400 g daily when combined with fruit. The health benefits provided by such dietary patterns are thought to result not from single antioxidants alone, but from a complex interplay of factors, including the dietary fiber and thousands of phytochemicals found in vegetables and fruits, as well as the maintenance of a healthy body weight.
