Antioxidants
Antioxidants are a certain type of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. They help protect your body from
some health problems, such as:
cancer
artery and heart disease
arthritis
cataracts
Beta-carotene,
vitamins C and
E, and
selenium are the
antioxidants that have been studied the most.
Information
Researchers are now studying whether taking higher amounts of antioxidant
supplements can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. They continue to study how much would be
needed, how long they would need to be taken, and what would be the long-term side effects. The
results will not be known for a few more years.
In the meantime, experts recommend that people eat a balanced diet low in fat with at least 5 servings
per day of fresh fruits and vegetables, and plenty of whole grains. This provides good sources of the
nutrients that help promote health and fight disease. These nutrients include antioxidants, dietary
fiber, and other vitamins and minerals.
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