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Written by Tania
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With out antioxidants, many of us would be prey to numerous infections
and possibly even cancer within a few months. Although our bodies
produce their own antioxidants, we also need to boost our defenses by
eating foods that contain them. Just how important these dietary
antioxidants are is a matter of great debate. All too often claims for
dietary antioxidants - particularly for supplements - have been
exaggerated, but recent research suggests that they may offer
protection against certain cancers and heart disease, and may also help
to prevent premature aging.
Antioxidants protect against Free Radicals, chemicals which are formed
in the body as part of its metabolism and defense against bacteria.
Certain factors such as excessive exposure to environmental pollution
or ultraviolet light, illness and cigarette smoke, can cause the body
to increase its production of free radicals. Left unchecked, these
unstable and potentially harmful chemicals create conditions that may
precipitate heart disease and cancer.
To cope with these free radicals, the body needs more antioxidants than
it can produce, particularly during times of illness or when exposed to
pollutants. Fortunately, many foods provide antioxidants that help to
protect the body against their threat.
Vitamins E and C and beta carotene, the plant form of vitamin A, help
to neutralize free radicals, as do minerals such as selenium (found in
shellfish and avocados), copper (in nuts, seeds and shellfish).
Bioflavonoids, found in some fruit and grapes, also have antioxidant
properties. Artificial antioxidants are added to margarine and oils to
stop them becoming rancid, and to retain the natural colorings of
processed foods.
Preventing Disease
More research is needed into the role of antioxidants in disease
prevention. However, it is thought that free radicals may start the
damage that causes fatty cholesterol deposits in the arteries, which
can eventually lead to heart disease or a stroke. High levels of
antioxidant vitamins and minerals may help to prevent this harmful
process, as well as damage to DNA that could lead to certain cancers.
Supplements of particular antioxidant vitamins and minerals need to be
taken in the correct balance and, even then, too many can be harmful.
To obtain an adequate intake of antioxidants, it is safer to eat plenty
of fresh fruit and vegetables. Citrus fruit provides vitamin C, and
brightly colored fruit and vegetables supply beta carotene. The vitamin
E found in nuts, avocados and vegetable oils may also help to protect
against disease.
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