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URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/antioxidants.html

Antioxidants

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Summary

Antioxidants are man-made or natural substances that may prevent or delay some types of cell damage. Antioxidants are found in many foods, including fruits and vegetables. They are also available as dietary supplements. Examples of antioxidants include:

Vegetables and fruits are rich sources of antioxidants. There is good evidence that eating a diet with lots of vegetables and fruits is healthy and lowers risks of certain diseases. But it isn't 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. For example, high doses of beta-carotene may increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers. High doses of vitamin E may increase risks of prostate cancer and one type of stroke. Antioxidant supplements may also interact with some medicines. To minimize risk, tell your health care providers about any antioxidants you use.

NIH: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

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Specifics

  • Coenzyme Q10 (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research) Also in Spanish
  • Cranberry From the National Institutes of Health (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)
  • Grape Seed Extract From the National Institutes of Health (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)
  • Noni From the National Institutes of Health (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)
  • Selenium From the National Institutes of Health (National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements) Also in Spanish
  • Vitamin A From the National Institutes of Health (National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements) Also in Spanish
  • Vitamin C From the National Institutes of Health (National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements) Also in Spanish
  • Vitamin E From the National Institutes of Health (National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements) Also in Spanish
  • Zinc From the National Institutes of Health (National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements) Also in Spanish

Statistics and Research

Clinical Trials

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.