What is an Antioxidant?

According to the National Cancer Institute "antioxidants are substances that may protect cells from the damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals. Examples of antioxidants include beta-carotene, lycopene, vitamins C and E, and other substances. Many of these antioxidant substances come from fruits and vegetables."

Fruits and vegetables contain a powerful array of antioxidants that offer protection for our bodies. Beta-carotene is found in many fruits and vegetables that are orange in color, including carrots, Some green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale are also rich in beta-carotene.

• Lutein, best known for its association with healthy eyes, is abundant in green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale.
• Lycopene is a potent antioxidant found in abundance in tomatoes.
• Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables such as apples, oranges, pineapple, acerola cherries, papaya, carrots, parsley, kale, broccoli, cabbage, spinach, and tomatoes.
• Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant found in green leafy vegetables such as spinach and broccoli.