In the last few years increasing numbers of reports have suggested that the use of Beta Carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A, may act to prevent the development of various malignancies. Beta Carotene and other similar compounds have properties that appear to affect cell growth and maturation. Beta carotene, like vitamin A and E is stored in the liver. Current clinical trials in prevention of cervix cancer and cancer of the lung and breast are using beta carotene. This may also be helpful in the prevention of colon cancer and melanoma.
Vitamin E is an important anti-oxidant.
It acts as a free radical scavenger to prevent the byproducts of chemical-cell interaction from causing cell damage. Free radicals are likely responsible for all or most of the degenerative diseases e.g. arthritis, heart disease, cancer, senility etc. The absorption or scavenging of free radicals protects our cells from this type of injury. Other free radical scavengers include zinc, vitamin C, and selenium. Studies have reported vitamin E to protect against some of the toxicity's of ionizing radiation.