Antioxidant intake among maladapted highlanders : link to vascular function

Exposure to high altitude leads to an increased formation of free radicals. This, in Chronic Mountain Sickness sufferers (CMS+), may contribute to systemic vascular dysfunction in comparison to the well-adapted controls (CMS-). The protective role of dietary antioxidants in minimising oxidative stress has been well documented. Furthermore, the nutritional shift from locally sourced foods to westernised, nutrients depleted diet in Latin American urban areas, is also reported. The aim of the study was to investigate vascular function and intake of dietary antioxidants in healthy, well-adapted and diseased maladapted highlanders born and bred in La Paz, Bolivia. We hypothesised that CMS sufferers will show impaired vascular function and low intake of dietary antioxidants compared to well-adapted highlander residents.