Many vitamins and minerals act as antioxidants in your body. According to MedlinePlus, antioxidants act to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can occur in your body upon the breakdown of food or exposure to toxic substances. These can cause damage to your cells and may play a role in cancer and heart disease.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an antioxidant that is important for proper vision, healthy growth of bones, sufficient immunity, and a functioning reproductive system. You can obtain this vitamin in a supplement, however, it is also present in many dietary sources. Good food choices include beef liver, whole milk, carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, pumpkin and squash.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that aids in proper metabolism and immune function in your body. You can consume this vitamin in many foods including nuts, nut butters, seeds, avocado, and green leafy vegetables. Other vitamin E-rich foods include vegetable oils such as safflower oil, sunflower oil, canola oil and olive oil.
Selenium
Selenium is an important mineral in your body that works as an antioxidant, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Selenium plays an important role in maintaining the health and proper functioning of your immune system and thyroid. This mineral can be obtained in a variety of foods including liver, butter, garlic and whole grains. Fish and seafood are also good sources of this mineral. Specifically, mackerel, herring, flounder, oysters, scallops, and lobster. Other potential sources include Brazil nuts and sunflower seeds. In addition to these dietary sources, selenium can also be taken in supplement form.
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