Free radicals damage DNA and the damage sometimes leads to the development of cancer. In cell cultures and experimental animals in the laboratory, antioxidants can slow down cancer development. These results are also can on research involving people who consume antioxidant supplements.

A large study involving 29,000 men showed that while beta-carotent supplements consumed by smokers, the rate of progression of lung cancer they are 18% higher and the mortality rate 8% higher than those who did not consume supplements.

Other studies that provide supplements of  beta-carotene and vitamin A in men halted when researchers found that men who received beta-carotene had a 46% greater chance to experience death from lung cancer than those who did not receive it.

Other large studies also show little or no effectiveness against cancer prevention.

American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute, and several health organizations recommend antioxidant should come from a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fat, not from dietary supplements.

VISION LOSS DUE TO AGE.

Cataracts and macular decline associated with aging are two common types of vision decline in elderly people.

Cataracts occur due to changes in lens proteins. This change causes the lens becomes cloudy and limiting vision. These changes may be caused by free radicals.

The decrease was due to age macular retinal disease that can not be treated so that it can cause blindness.

Two antioxidant carotenoids namely, zeaxanthin and lutein, found in the retina, and is essential for vision.

However, the study participants who consumed antioxidant supplements for several years did not have a reduction in the risk of developing this disease.

Warning

Interaction

Interaction among the various antioxidants, enxym, coenzymes, medicines, herbs, and supplements is complex and not yet fully understood. Certain antioxidants may have been known to interact and should be discussed with a doctor.

Complication

Antioxidants obtained by eating fruits and vegetables are important for health. No complications of antioxidants in the can of food.

Antioxidant supplements may interact with other suppelemt, medicines, and herbal supplements, in ways that cause unexpected side effects.

Consult with a physician before taking antioxidant supplements.

Attention parents

Parents should encourage their children to consume a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Children do not need to be given antioxidant supplements. The safety of these supplements to children has not been investigated.