Vitamin C, Vitamin E and beta carotene are also examples of antioxidant nutrients. Scientists believe phytochemicals may protect cells from the damaging effects of toxic substances that can result in cancer, heart disease and foster the aging process, according to the American Dietetic Association. Research also suggests that people tend to develop fewer cancers when their diets contain antioxidant-rich foods, the ADA advises. The best sources of Vitamin C are broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, tomatoes, green peppers and potatoes, citrus fruits, strawberries and cantaloupe. Broccoli, spinach and romaine lettuce provide Vitamin E along with whole-grain breads and cereals, nuts and seeds like almonds, hazelnuts and sunflower seeds.
People read how exciting beta carotene is and they think Oh, supplements.
Ga. But based on what we know, there is no benefit to taking supplements of antioxidants or phytochemicals. The best way to get those is through diet. Chris Walcott of Hamden found he was changing his diet almost subconsciously last year as his father underwent surgery, then radiation and chemotherapy, for colon cancer. Instead of eating sweets and drinking coffee, the younger Walcott would grab a banana or an orange. It was actually a lot tastier than what I was used to eating, he says, and I found myself losing weight just by changing foods.