Antioxidants: Protecting Healthy Cells
Our bodies are battlegrounds against infection and diseases. Environmental exposures, such as smoking, pollution, and ultra-violet (UV) rays from the sun, produce substances called free radicals that attack healthy cells. When these healthy cells are weakened, they are more susceptible to cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancers. Antioxidants — such as vitamins C and E and carotenoids, which include beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein — help protect healthy cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Carotenoids
Beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein are well-known carotenoids in the fight to reduce the damage from free radicals. Foods high in carotenoids may be effective in helping to reduce the chance of developing certain cancers and may help decrease your risk of macular degeneration. Foods high in carotenoids include red, orange, deep-yellow, and some dark-green leafy vegetables; these include sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, tomatoes, Brussels sprouts, winter squash, and broccoli.
Vitamin E
Research has demonstrated the broad role of vitamin E in promoting health. The main role of vitamin E is as an antioxidant. Research has looked at its possible role in helping to protect your body from cell damage that can lead to cancer, heart disease, and cataracts as we age. Vitamin E also may work with other antioxidants such as vitamin C to offer protection from some chronic diseases. Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, wheat germ, whole-grains, and fortified cereals, seeds, nuts, and peanut butter.
Vitamin C
Perhaps the best-known antioxidant, vitamin C, offers a wide variety of health benefits. These benefits include protecting your body from infection and damage to body cells, helping produce collagen (the connective tissue that holds bones and muscles together), and helping in the absorption of iron. To take advantage of these benefits, eat foods rich in vitamin C such as citrus fruits (including oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines), strawberries, sweet peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, and potatoes.
Challenges to Healthful Eating
The best way to build a healthy eating plan is to eat well-balanced meals and snacks each day and to enjoy a wide variety of foods. For most adults, eating at least 1½ to 2 cups of fruits and 2½ to 3 cups of vegetables daily is a good start for healthful living. Remember: Fresh, frozen, dried, and canned fruits and vegetables can all be nutritious choices! Choose frozen and canned options without added sugars or salt.
Adapted from Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and prepared by Rachel A. Mischler, RD, CDN. If you wish to speak to Rachel with any questions or nutritional concerns,please contact her at 607-744-0245.
