Foods rich in beta carotene, like carrots, cantaloupe and dried apricots, may help lower the risk of some cancers. Although certain fruits and vegetables seem to have protective qualities, it is not known what components of these foods may protect against the development of cancer. According to recent research, vitamin C may help prevent oral, esophageal, stomach, cervical and breast cancers. Vitamin E may reduce the risk of oral, esophageal, lung, stomach, cervical, pancreatic and urinary cancers. Although research is promising, at this time more clinical studies are needed before any public policy recommendations can be made on high-dosage supplement use.
Antioxidant supplements prevent heart disease.
Several clinical trials are planned or underway to establish whether or not these vitamins do protect against heart disease. Food sources of vitamin E include vegetable oils, wheat germ, nuts and green leafy vegetables. Osteoporosis can be prevented by taking calcium supplements. Estrogen levels, exercise, gender, body size, smoking, race and heredity are all important aspects that relate to osteoporosis. The most effective treatment in postmenopausal women may be a combination of extra calcium, exercise and estrogen.