Why is the disarming of free radicals so important in cancer prevention?
It is important to disarm free radicals because they can damage double bonds in phospholipids of cell walls and of DNA, altering cell permeability and causing genetic mutation affecting cell behavior (including abnormal growth patterns such as proliferation of undifferentiated cells). Damaged mitochondrial membranes (the energy power-houses inside every cell) reduce the ability of cells to utilize oxygen. The vitamins C, E and A (beta carotene) have an anti-oxidant effect, disarming free radicals. They work closely with the important anti-oxidant enzymes Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) containing zinc, manganese and copper, and Glutathione Peroxidase (GP) containing the mineral selenium. What nutrients have been shown to be effective in the prevention and/or treatment of different types of cancer? Nutritional therapy is not a cure for cancer, but certain vitamins and minerals may prevent deterioration and spread of the cancer, and boost the immune system. The primary anti-oxidants are: vita
