Like Vitamin E, Beta carotene breaks free radical chain reactions, preventing LDL cholesterol oxidation which protects against heart disease and stroke. Lycopene, the red pigment found in tomatoes has at least 10 times more antioxidant capability than Beta-carotene. Numerous studies have identified cancer fighting protection, especially against prostate cancer. Lutien and zeaxanthin, found abundantly in spinach, protect the eye from free radical damage, offering protection against macular degeneration and cataracts. These form the water-soluble plant pigments of vegetables, fruits, grains, seeds, leaves and barks.
Some plants contain higher concentrations of certain flavonoids.
Grapes for instance are rich in the flavonoids called catechins and resveratrol. Red grapes contain an additional antioxidant, anthocyanin, giving them their intense red-purple color. Studies have shown that resveratrol protects against carcinogenesis in the skin and inhibits the body's production of chemicals chemicals that increase inflammation. It may be the flavonoids in grapes that account for the so-called French Paradox. Despite eating large amounts of fatty foods, the French have a relatively low rate of heart disease.