The benefits of antioxidant vitamins include neutralizing free radicals. These free radicals are responsible for many degenerative diseases and disorders, not least of which is various types of cancer. The neutralizing effect and benefits of antioxidant vitamins also help boost the body’s immune system, thereby reducing the likelihood of developing cancer.

Deficiencies in the benefits of antioxidant vitamins, such as vitamins A, C, E, and beta-carotene have been linked to heart disease. All of these nutrients exhibit the benefits of antioxidant vitamins and other such properties that have positive effects on the heart.

Another group of vitamins that contribute to the benefits of antioxidant vitamins are folate and B12 vitamins. Various studies show that deficiencies in the B vitamins folate or folic acid and B12 have been associated with elevated blood levels of homocysteine, an amino acid. The same studies showed that there are lower failure rates after heart surgery in patients who took folic acid and vitamins B12 and B6.

The benefits of antioxidant vitamins are certainly not inclusive only with cancer prevention. The benefits of antioxidant vitamins also include heart protection, especially with natural antioxidants such as flavonoids, organosulfurs, isoflavones, and sterols. Certain flavonoids, found in both black and green tea, dark chocolate, onions, red wine or red grape juice, and apples, appear to have the strong heart protective benefits of antioxidant vitamins. In a 2003 study, people who consumed the most flavonoids in foods had a 20% lower risk for heart disease than those with low consumption. Flavonoids may also protect against the damage done by cholesterol and help prevent blood clots.

Posted: 09|13|07 at 10:24 am. Filed under: News.