Are Antioxidant Supplements Worth the Money?
Antioxidant supplements are often touted as a means of preventing disease and fighting the negative effects of aging. Found naturally in a number of foods, antioxidants are substances that help knock out free radicals (chemical byproducts known to damage cells and contribute to the development of certain diseases). Antioxidant supplements may include a number of different free-radical-fighting compounds. Vitamins in Antioxidant Supplements Antioxidant supplements often contain the following substances, all of which are considered antioxidants: • beta-carotene • lutein • lycopene • selenium • vitamin A • vitamin C • vitamin E Benefits of Antioxidant Supplements Proponents of antioxidant supplements suggest that increasing your antioxidant intake can help prevent chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer. But while rese