Kind of shocked there is not more conversation about this when they have been reputed to score so highly on the ORAC scale and have such health benefits...
You'll find that there are numerous antioxidants that have advertised high ORAC ratings. We need to be able to choose which supplements target our goals most effectively. Simply having a high ORAC rating is not enough - I'd like to know more specifically what effects the supplement will have on my body. To ascertain this, we attempt to evaluate controlled studies. Of course our information is incomplete...
Most of us want to see that a supplement may help increase life-span, or at least improve bio-markers (often in blood tests) correlated with longevity. If a supplement has a high ORAC value, but no evidence to support its use in improving, say, glutathione levels, cholesterol, brain function, etc... then I couldn't logically spend money on that unproven supplement. I'd want several convincing studies supporting its positive effects while also demonstrating its safety.
About apple polyphenols:
Numerous anti-oxidants, including apple polyphenols, have been discussed here before I'm sure. Perhaps they are worthwhile - I've never read the available literature. I merely wanted to highlight the importance of looking beyond the ORAC value marketing.
Edit: And I'll probably look into apple polyphenols in the near future. Thanks.
Edit 2:
http://www.applepoly...s.com/index.htm - this seems to be their advertising research.
Edited by VampIyer, 06 July 2009 - 08:30 AM.