List of Antioxidants

Antioxidants are nutrients that prevent free radical molecules and lipids in your body from receiving oxygen. This impedes the ability of these molecules to attack and destroy healthy organ, bone and tissue cells, and may help prevent the formation and growth of cancerous tumors. Antioxidants may also help prevent Alzheimer's disease, heart disease and macular degeneration, according to MayoClinic.com. Several vitamins and nutrients found in food sources may offer antioxidant benefits.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means that your body stores this vitamin in fat tissues, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This vitamin has potent antioxidant properties, and may be particularly effective for preventing the oxidation of lipids, or fats, in your bloodstream. Increase your intake of vitamin E by consuming foods such as olive oil, kale, eggs, kelp, brown rice and sweet potatoes.

Lycopene

Lycopene is a carotenoid, which is a substance your body uses to produce vitamin A, according to Balch. This substance occurs naturally in your colon, skin, liver and adrenal glands. It is also found in food sources, particularly tomatoes. This carotenoid may offer antioxidant benefits, according to MayoClinic.com. However, because tomatoes also contain other antioxidant vitamins, the benefits of lycopene are not clear.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is best known as a powerful immune system booster -- it may help ward off colds and influenza, as well as bacterial and fungal infections. However, this vitamin also offers antioxidant benefits, according to MayoClinic.com. Boost your intake of this antioxidant vitamin by consuming foods such as broccoli, kiwi fruit, spinach, avocados, oranges, apples, grapefruits and strawberries.

Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral that is necessary for the synthesis of proteins from food sources. It may also speed the healing of skin wounds. Zinc is also an antioxidant, according to Balch. It may also promote the production of an enzyme called superoxide dismutase, which may also provide antioxidant benefits. Zinc is found in foods such as saltwater fish, beans, sunflower seeds, alfalfa, parsley, sage and whole-grain pastas and breads.