Antioxidants are substances that counter the cell-damaging effects of by-products of a bodily process called oxidation. These unstable molecular by-products, called free radicals, also result from certain environmental exposures such as tobacco smoke, radiation and other toxins. Free radicals may contribute to diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease and Parkinson's. Antioxidants include vitamins and some other naturally occurring substances. You can get them from your diet or from dietary supplements.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has antioxidant properties. Citrus fruits, cantaloupes, tomatoes, green peppers, red peppers and broccoli are good sources of vitamin C. You can also get it from supplements. It's a necessary vitamin for healthy bones and skin. Vitamin C also aids in wound healing and helps your body absorb iron.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant vitamin. Another name for it is alpha-tocopherol. Certain oils, such as soybean, corn, safflower and wheatgerm are sources of vitamin E. Almonds and other nuts, leafy green vegetables and some cereals are also good sources of vitamin E. IVitamin E is necessary for immune function.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A possesses antioxidant properties. A water-soluble vitamin, sources include milk, liver, sweet potatoes, mozzarella cheese, saltwater fish and carrots. It is vital for your body's immune function, bones, eyesight and reproduction.
Carotenoids
Beta-carotene, lycopene and lutein are not vitamins, but they posses antioxidant properties. They are a group of red, orange and yellow pigmented chemical substances called carotenoids. Beta-carotene is a carotenoid found in orange-colored fruits such as cantaloupe and pumpkin, leafy green vegetables such as collards and spinach, and sweet potatoes and squash. In the body, beta-carotene gets converted to vitamin A. Besides being a source of vitamin A, the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database reports that beta-carotene may be used to prevent sun sensitivity in people with a genetic blood disorder called erythropoietic protoporphyria, to prevent breast cancer in premenopausal women who have an increased risk for developing it due to their family history, and to prevent an eye disease called age-related macular degeneration. Lycopene is a red-pigmented carotenoid. It gives tomatoes, watermelon and pink grapefruit its color. According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, Lycopene can be used to prevent hardening of the arteries. Lutein is a carotenoid found in grapes, kale, spinach, broccoli, corn and orange juice that promotes eye health.
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