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Antioxidants
Many people misunderstand antioxidants as the ultimate cancer prevention method. This is highly due to the media and advertisement pushing items which contain antioxidants with terms like “anti-cancer” or “anti-aging”. We have to understand that antioxidants are found in virtually all food in varying amounts, and you don’t need to buy any artificial product to get them.
Antioxidants work by preventing damage to cells whether due to internal or external oxidants. Oxidants are molecules that can damage your DNA and make your cells age quickly. They result from normal processes in our bodies and from external exposure to chemicals and physical agents. Their damage can potentially cause cancer in the same way it causes aging. Antioxidants are naturally found in our bodies including glutathione, thioreductase and vitamins C and E.
Certain foods are rich in antioxidants and can, therefore, combat against such oxidants, slowing cellular damage. Antioxidants cannot completely prevent cancer nor do they stop aging no matter how much of them you consume. Foods and drinks rich in antioxidants include:
- Tea: Both green and red tea are rich in antioxidants and can be consumed daily -with as little sugar as possible-. Avoid excessive use, however, since it reduces iron absorption from vegetables and can cause heartburn because it is rich in acid.
- Coffee: Coffee is the second most commonly consumed beverage after water. It is rich in antioxidants and can be beneficial if not consumed excessively. Avoid it if you have insomnia or hypertension.
- Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits: all of the citrus family is rich in vitamin C, which is one of the best and most commonly available antioxidants.
- Vitamin E rich foods including almonds, sunflower seeds, and olive oil.
- Selenium rich foods including oysters, Brazil nuts and tuna.
