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Palacios C, Joshipura K J et al. Oral Diseases 2009; 15: 369–381

This review cites almost 200 references. Surprisingly, total fat intake is not associated with 'long-term control of body weight', risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer but the 'quality of fat' may be important. A meta-analysis has shown that a range of different antioxidants did not have a protective effect on the progression of atherosclerosis. In addition, their role in the prevention of certain cancers is not clear but they could 'alter the inflammatory process in periodontitis'. The consumption of fruits shows a consistent inverse association with oral cancer and 'for vegetables, the strongest inverse association is seen for tomatoes'. Beta-carotene supplements reduce the 'risk of oral cancers and the remission of precancers'. Generally, the diet is compromised in those who have lost teeth although 'their significance with respect to chronic disease risks (are) uncertain'.