Without them, the reactions can't get started. Some vitamins have antioxidant activity. They form the structures in the body, e.g., calcium in bone, iron in the blood, and they also regulate metabolic processes. Minerals also participate in antioxidation. Free radicals damage cells, including T-cells, and are caused by infections such as HIV, smoking, bad fats, and pollutants such as exhaust fumes in the air.
Some vitamins are antioxidants.
These are plant compounds, many of which are antioxidants, that seem to help prevent heart disease and cancer. Like antioxidants, they too protect cells. Many plants that contain phytochemicals are brightly colored, such as red tomatoes. To help you decide how best to get the micronutrients you need, you need to know the function of each and where to find it in the food supply, how much is enough, and what can happen if you overdo it. Vitamin A is essential for normal vision, growth and development, and a healthy immune system.