In this experiment, antioxidants and vitamins were involved. Antioxidants are molecules which can safely interact with free radicals and terminate the chain reaction before vital molecules are damaged. Although there are several enzyme systems within the body that scavenge free radicals, the principle micronutrient (vitamin) antioxidants are vitamin E, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. Additionally, selenium, a trace metal that is required for proper function of one of the body 's antioxidant enzyme systems, is sometimes included in this category. The body cannot manufacture these micronutrients so they must be supplied in the diet. Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms with an odd (unpaired) number of electrons and can be formed when oxygen …show more content…
In most cases, all you need to fulfill your body 's quota for antioxidants is a healthy and balanced diet. In fact, it 's a good idea to talk to your doctor before increasing your intake of any supplement. Some examples of antioxidants are Vitamin E, C, and A. Vitamin E is a d-alpha tocopherol. It is a fat soluble vitamin present in nuts, seeds, vegetable and fish oils, whole grains (esp. wheat germ), fortified cereals, and apricots. Current recommended daily allowance (RDA) is 15 IU per day for men and 12 IU per day for women. Vitamin C is an ascorbic acid is a water soluble vitamin present in citrus fruits and juices, green peppers, cabbage, spinach, broccoli, kale, cantaloupe, kiwi, and strawberries. The RDA is 60 mg per day. Intake above 2000 mg may be associated with adverse side effects in some individuals. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A (retinol) and is present in liver, egg yolk, milk, butter, spinach, carrots, squash, broccoli, yams, tomato, cantaloupe, peaches, and grains. (NOTE: Vitamin A has no antioxidant properties and can be quite toxic when taken in excess.). Some examples of free radicals in the environment are Hydroxyl, Superoxide, Hydroperoxyl, Alkoxyl, Peroxyl. Antioxidants fight the damage of