Antioxidants are molecules that can help the body fight off harmful free radicals, which have been linked to health conditions like diabetes and cancer. Free radicals are compounds that can cause harm if their levels become too high in the body, and antioxidants neutralize them. Antioxidants can be categorized as either water- or fat-soluble, and they perform their actions in different parts of the body. Some important dietary antioxidants include:

• Vitamin C: This water-soluble antioxidant is an essential dietary nutrient and is found in many fruits and vegetables, including broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupe, cauliflower, grapefruit, and leafy greens.

• Vitamin E: This fat-soluble antioxidant is found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils, and it helps protect cell membranes from damage.

• Beta-carotene: This is a type of carotenoid, which is a pigment found in many fruits and vegetables, including carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.

• Selenium: This mineral is found in many foods, including Brazil nuts, tuna, and whole grains.

Antioxidants are also found in other plant-based foods, such as whole grains, nuts, and some meats, poultry, and fish. While there is good evidence that eating a diet with lots of fruits and vegetables is healthy and lowers the risk of certain diseases, it isnt clear whether this is because of the antioxidants, something else in the foods, or other factors. High-dose supplements of antioxidants may be linked to health risks in some cases, so its important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.