Selenium, Beta Carotene (pro-vitamin A), C, E and Zinc amongst other substances are often described as powerful antioxidants. It has, within the last twenty years, become more apparent that these nutrients make a significant contribution to health because they have the ability to defend the body from free radical attack. Free radicals can be defined as unstable atoms, ions or molecules and are generated in many ways, from normal biochemical pathways such as respiration, to such external sources as cigarette smoke, exhaust fumes, IV light, drugs and alcohol. Free radicals are also produced by the body to protect it from invading bacteria.
