Evidence suggests that vitamins C and E, and beta carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, may reduce the risk of some forms of cancer, heart disease, strokes, cataracts, as well as slow the aging process. Although oxygen is vital to life, scientists are also finding this essential element may contribute to human aging and illness. Free radicals travel through the cell, disrupting the structure of other molecules and resulting in cellular damage. Such damage is believed to contribute to aging and various health problems.
Antioxidants protect key cell components from damage by neutralizing the free radicals.
Antioxidants that occur naturally in the body or are consumed through the diet may block most of the damage. However, over time damaged cells can accumulate and lead to age-related diseases, researchers say. In an effort to combat free-radical activity, scientists are studying the effects of increasing individuals' antioxidant levels through the diet and dietary supplements. Persons who received a daily dose of beta carotene, vitamin E and selenium had a reduced cancer rate of 13 percent. Nutrient doses ranged from one to two times the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance.