Antioxidants

What is an antioxidant?

Antioxidants are substances that may protect cells from damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals.  Free radical damage may lead to cancer.  Antioxidants interact with and stabilize free radicals and may prevent some of the damage free radicals might otherwise cause.

Examples of antioxidants include beta-carotene, lycopene, vitamins C, E, and A, and other substances.

Can antioxidants prevent cancer?

Considerable laboratory evidence from chemical, cell culture, and animal studies indicates that antioxidants may slow or possibly prevent the development of cancer.

From the Centers from Disease Control and Prevention came the 5-A-Day programs, which encouraged 5 portions of fruits and vegetables daily to prevent cancer and other diseases.  This program has become Fruits and Veggies- More Matters.  The reason for the emphasis on fruits and vegetables is due to the antioxidants found in these particular foods, among others. 

Good Sources of Antioxidants
Small red bean (dried)
Wild blueberry
Red kidney bean (dried)
Pinto bean
Blueberry (cultivated)
Cranberry
Artichoke (cooked hearts)
Blackberry
Prune
Raspberry
Strawberry
Red delicious apple
Granny Smith apple
Pecan
Sweet cherry
Black plum
Russet potato
Black bean (dried)
Plum
Gala apples

I encourage you to incorporate the fruits and vegetables you like into each meal.  By making half your plate fruits and vegetables, you fill up faster with the fiber in them with fewer calories than most foods.  Plus, remember the benefits of those antioxidants!