Normally present in the cell mitochondria, the part of the cell responsible for energy production CoQ10 plays a major role in protecting these crucial cell components from free radical, or oxidative, damage. This is especially noticeable in Parkinson's disease and chronic fatigue syndrome. CoQ10 is one of the few antioxidants that can actually penetrate mitochondria and provide antioxidant defense inside the mitochondrial membrane. CoQ10 has been shown to be helpful to those suffering from heart disease, hypertension, gum disease and is now being investigated for use by cancer patients as well. Numerous population studies have repeatedly demonstrated that a high intake of carotene-rich fruits and vegetables reduces the risk of cancer, heart disease, and strokes.
Carotenes represent the most widespread group of naturally occurring pigments in nature.
In addition, polyphenols spring into action when it becomes necessary to detoxify the body's blood of certain metals, such as iron, that may otherwise promote additional risky free radical activity if levels reach the danger mark. Finally, polyphenols have a keen knack for slowing down the production of lipoxygenase, and enzyme that can turn up the heat under the body's inflammatory and allergic responses. One interesting group of polyphenols, epigallocatechin gallate, is readily available through drinking green tea. This group has been studies by the American Health Foundation, which found it to be significantly better at inhibiting deadly peroxynitrite reactions than either vitamin C or glutathionine. Our own food supply is filled with polyphenols.