What Are Antioxidants Good for?

Antioxidants are substances found in certain kinds of foods that can slow or prevent the oxidation of other molecules. When molecules oxidize, they produce free radicals that can damage biological reactions and cells. Antioxidants absorb this oxidation, and they contribute to the molecule redox processes as a reducing agent.

Common Antioxidants

• Common antioxidants include vitamin A, carotenoids, lutein, lycopene, vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium. These dietary substances can be found in both foods and supplements. These antioxidants that the body needs are found in natural foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains and nuts.

Benefits

• Cancer.gov states that laboratory evidence from scientific studies show that antioxidants may slow the growth of cancer. Aside from reducing the risk of diseases, antioxidants may also slow the aging process as well as promote healthy skin. Antioxidants may improve your immune system by giving you stronger resistance against diseases.

Food Sources of Non-vitamin Antioxidants

• Antioxidants are mostly found in fruits and vegetables, as well as in nuts and grains. Betacarotene is found in foods that have an orange color, such as carrots and sweet potatoes. Lycopene is found in tomatoes and other fruits such as guava, papaya and grapefruit. Lutein can be found in dark, leafy vegetables. Selenium can be found in plant foods such as rice.

Food Sources of Vitamin Antioxidants

• Vitamin A can be found in liver, carrots and dairy. Vitamin C is known as ascorbic acid, and can be found in citrus fruits, as well as cereals, poultry and fish. Vitamin E can be found in almonds as well as oils from safflower and corn.

Flavonoids

• Flavonoids are a type of antioxidants that may help lower the risk of heart disease. They are found in fruits, vegetables, grains and beverages. Flavonoids are present in almonds, apples and bran. Green tea and coffee are drinks that contain flavonoids as well.