To date, cancer is still one of the toughest diseases out there. Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention/Treatment: One Area of Growing Interest. Antioxidants are very effective biochemicals, which can keep our cells safe, and lower the rate of cancer incidence.
Vitamin C: Citrus fruits such as lemons, grapefruits and oranges,are well known for their antioxidant content. They help in neutralizing free radicals that may cause DNA damage or even cancer. This vitamin also is important for a healthy immune system, therefore it helps organisms to fight with cancer.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is another strong antioxidant found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils protecting cells against harm. Prostate, as well as lung, cancer risk is reduced in women.
Beta-Carotene: Your body converts beta-carotene, a carotenoid found in sweet potatoes, butternut squash and carrots into vitamin A. This antioxidant helps to reduce the risks of cancer.
Selenium: It occurs in nuts, sea foods and entire grains. Selenium defends DNA against damages leading to a decreased susceptibility to prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers.
Lycopene: Lycopene –an extremely effective antioxidant extracted mainly from tomatoes—has been linked to decreased risks of incurring prostate cancer. In fact, cooked tomatoes make lycopene easier to take in.
Flavonoids: They include the plant chemicals found in foods such as onions, apples, and green tea. Oxerutins are effective antioxidants, which shield cells against damage and display promises in the minimization of cancer risk.
Resveratrol: The antioxidant present in red grapes and red wine could be important for cancer prevention, because this substance can limit the ability of cancer cells to get into other parts of the body and induce damaged cells death.
Such strong antioxidants combined with proper living habits would be an efficacious defense against cancer. However, we have to bear in mind that antioxidants may lower the cancer risk but should not take the place of medical advice and treatment. They are integral for healthy living and can be included as part of balanced nutrition. Only then can we understand the whole potential of antioxidants as a weapon in fighting cancer while at the same time taking proactive measures like screening regularly, eating healthy, and engaging in other activities that uphold good health.
