Types of Antioxidants That Can Prevent Cancer

Antioxidants are compounds that can play a role in keeping cancer at bay. These compounds particularly combat free radicals, unstable atoms that damage the cells of the body that will eventually lead to developing cancer. People get free radicals from breathing in smoke, air pollution, and other environmental toxins. The key role of antioxidants is to fight free radicals and keep the body healthy. Here are some of the vitamins and foods where you can get antioxidants.

1. Vitamin C

Humans cannot make Vitamin C so it needs to be obtained from diet or supplements. Vitamin C is a water-soluble Antioxidant that regenerates other Antioxidants in the body, including Vitamin E. In addition to being an Antioxidant, it is used for immune function. Vitamin C can limit the formation of carcinogens, modulate immune response and potentially repair oxidative damage that leads to cancer. Studies have shown that high doses in research selectively kill cancer cells. Age-Related Macular Degeneration has some links with Vitamin C, where it may slow progression in those with a high risk of developing the disease. Vitamin C supplementation is also linked with decreased risk of coronary heart disease.

Foods The highest concentrations of Vitamin C can be found in

• oranges
• red peppers
• kale
• broccoli

2. Vitamin A & Beta-carotene

This fat-soluble vitamin is involved in immune health, cell growth, and vision. There is mixed evidence on the relationship between Beta-Carotene and prostate cancer. Age-Related Macular Degeneration has been linked to Beta-Carotene supplements, in that it lowered risk of advanced stages of the disease. Beta-Carotene found in fruits and vegetables decreases the risk of breast cancer in premenopausal women. Postmenopausal women can find a reduced risk of ovarian cancer with eating a Beta-Carotene rich diet.

Foods

• sweet potatoes
• carrots
• kale
• squash

3. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that protects cell membranes from oxidations and recycles free radicals. It is involved in immune health and regulates cell signaling, gene expression, and metabolic processes. Vitamin E has both Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This Vitamin is linked with inhibiting bad cholesterol from adhering to walls of the heart, which causes atherosclerosis. Vitamin E may also prevent blood clots from forming that can lead to heart attacks and thromboembolisms, as well as lowering risks of heart disease. Vitamin E may block the formation of carcinogenic components in the stomach as well as protect from cancer by boosting the immune system. Taking Vitamin E supplements reduced the risk of bladder cancer according to The American Cancer Society studies. Age-Related Macular Degeneration risk is lowered with high dietary intakes of Vitamin E. Vitamin E is related to delayed brain deterioration due to age.

Foods Foods high in Vitamin E include

• almonds
• spinach
• avocados
• sunflower seeds

4. Lutein & Zeaxanthin

Found in the human eye, Lutein and Zeaxanthin protect the eye from the damage of free radicals created by blue light. Both Antioxidants are involved in protection against Age Related Macular Degeneration. An increase of Lutein and Zeaxanthin in diet and supplements lowers the risk of cataracts.

Foods

• eggs
• leafy green vegetables
• broccoli
• zucchini

5. Lycopene

This non-toxic Antioxidant is found in fruit and vegetables. Its job as an Antioxidant is to protect cells in the body from damage. Lycopene supplements are used for prevention against atherosclerosis. Research has shown that oral Lycopene supplements improved sperm quality in men with fertility issues, as well as healing ulcers and swelling in the mouth. Risk of developing pancreatic cancer has been lowered in diets high in lycopene from tomatoes.

Foods Fruits and vegetables that are high in Lycopene include:

• tomatoes
• watermelon
• pink grapefruit
• papaya Cooking foods that contain Lycopene actually increase the concentration.

6. Selenium

This mineral element is thought to be an Antioxidant, but the effects are most likely due to the antioxidant activity of selenium-containing proteins. Doctors usually suggest that people with HIV and Crohn’s disease use selenium supplements, while the average healthy person usually does not have a deficiency. Some promising research has found that Selenium can prevent cancer, although the mechanisms are not understood. It is speculated that it prevents DNA damage and reduces oxidative stress. Selenium supplements can improve inflammation in the thyroid, where the highest amount of Selenium in the body is located.

Foods

• brazil nuts
• walnuts
• saltwater fish
• beef
• poultry

7. Manganese

Manganese is involved in the formation of connective tissue, bones, blood-clotting factors and sex hormones. It also is important for brain and nerve function as well as being a component of the Antioxidant enzyme Superoxide Dismutase that fights free radicals. Many Americans have a deficiency in Manganese due to refined grains. Those with arthritis have low levels of Superoxide Dismutase, so studies are underway to see if manganese and glucosamine can reduce pain.

Foods

• whole grains
• nuts
• leafy vegetables

Medical centre in Abu Dhabi

Adam and Eve Specialized Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi has experienced internal medicine doctors that are adept in advising health measures that will prevent cancer. Book your appointment now with our internal medicine doctor in Abu Dhabi.