Antioxidants can be defined as a substance that slows or prevents the oxidation of other molecules. In simple word antioxidant is a molecule that helps in neutralization of free radicals. Antioxidant is also commonly known as anti-oxidation agents’ decreasing the effect of harmful oxidants by reacting with these dangerous molecules and decreasing their destroying power. Antioxidants can also help in repairing damages sustained by cells. Free radicals are known to damage or destroy living cells. Free radicals are produced in our body when body starts to break down food or gets exposed to smoke, radiation or tobacco. To counteract on these free radicals antioxidant is vital. In humans’ antioxidant are in the form of enzymes and can be taken via various vegetables and fruits.

It is assumed that about 5% of oxygen we breathe gets converted to free radicals. Free radicals produced in right amount are good for the body. It helps in immunity and injury. If the body gets infected, immune system sends cells which produce free radicals to destroy the foreign cells. But the excessive production leads to damages of cells. Antioxidant plays a vital role in controlling the level of free radicals. Some of the Antioxidants are Beta-carotene, Lutein, Lycopene, Selenium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

Vitamin is an organic compound required in small amount by our body for its proper growth and development. You can find various vitamins with antioxidant properties. Its main purpose is to protect body against free radicals and its effects. There are various vitamins with antioxidant properties. The major antioxidants vitamins are Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12.

Now let’s discuss about the vitamins which offers antioxidant in detail.

1. Vitamin C: It is water soluble antioxidant. Vitamin C can be found in Indian gooseberry, Red pepper, Guava, Kiwi fruit, Broccoli, Loganberry, Brussels sprouts, Cloudberry, papaya, strawberry, orange, lemon, Melon, Cauliflower, garlic, Grapefruit, Raspberry, Tangerine, Spinach, Mango, Blackberry, Tomato, Blue berry, Pineapple, Grape, Banana, Avocado, Cherry, Apple etc.
2. Vitamin E: Vitamin E is the fat soluble antioxidant. Vitamin E is found in Asparagus, Avocado, Egg, milk, Nuts like almonds or hazelnuts, seeds, spinach, vegetable oil (unheated), wheat germ, Wholegrain foods. Vitamin E along with Selenium is useful to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
3. Selenium: Selenium is found in most vegetables including whole grains, wheat germ, tuna, onions, molasses, garlic, dairy products, eggs, brown rice, oatmeal, brewer’s yeast, Brazil nuts etc.
4. Beta carotene (form of vitamin A): Found in Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, kale, spinach, sweet potatoes, yellow and red pepper and fruits like apricots, cantaloupe and mango.

Antioxidant are also used as in packaged food as food additives to prevent food deterioration. Antioxidant is also believed to slow down or prevent the development of cancer however it is not conclusive and research is still going on.

Antioxidant supplements are also available but it is generally not required if your diet contains maximum vegetables and fruits. Making above mentioned food as part of your daily diet will meet sufficient antioxidant needs. But still if you are thinking of taking a supplement than consult your physician.