The benefits of antioxidants, a group of vitamins that protect the body against free radicals, the toxic molecules that damage cells and have been linked with heart disease, certain kinds of cancer and macular degeneration, are no farther away than your kitchen. Free radicals are produced naturally, as a result of normal cellular function, and by the environment in the form of ultraviolet radiation and airborne pollutants, including cigarette smoke.

Where the Antioxidants Are
If you’re wondering to find antioxidants, look no further than your crisper drawer, your garden or your local butcher or grocer. Dietary antioxidants occur naturally in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, some nuts, and certain meats and animal products. Other sources of antioxidants include fortified foods like breakfast cereals.

If you find it challenging to eat the daily recommended 2-4 servings of fruit and 3-5 servings of vegetables, you can boost your antioxidant intake with multivitamins and supplements. However, getting your antioxidants from food is the better choice.

Vitamin A
Eat your carrots, and you’ll protect your eyesight. Carrots contain carotenoids that convert to one of the more well-known antioxidants: vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a role in vision, reproduction, bone growth and cell function. It also helps stave off infections by aiding in the manufacture of white blood cells.

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