MS is associated with elevated oxidative stress. We have reported that Ak, a vegetable rich in bioavailable phytochemicals, can increase antioxidant performance. To determine the effect of dietary modification on antioxidant status and DNA damage using Ak and/or Gm, a randomized double‐blind placebo controlled intervention study was conducted. Thirty‐two non‐smoking men and post‐menopausal women (>50 yr) with MS were randomly assigned to one of 4 groups, consuming two nutrition bars containing 1) placebo, 2) Ak (5 g), 3) Gm (5g), or 4) Ak (2.5 g) + Gm (2.5 g). Blood samples were collected on d1, 15, 29 and 43. Plasma carotenoids and tocopherol concentrations were analyzed by a HPLC system, total antioxidant performance (TAP) by fluorometry and lymphocyte DNA damage by single cell gel electrophoresis (comet). The combination of Ak + Gm showed significant increase in TAP on d29 as compared with the baseline (p=0.003). Ak+Gm and Ak also showed significant increase in plasma lutein concentration on d29 as well as d43 as compared to the baseline (p<0.05). Plasma β‐carotene concentration was significantly higher in Ak group as compared to the placebo group on d29 (p=0.002). The data on DNA damage are being analyzed. The current study indicated that dietary modification using Ak and Gm increase plasma carotenoid concentrations and antioxidant performance. [Supported by USDA ARS #58‐1950‐7‐07, USA and BioGreen 21 #20070301034009 RDA, Korea]