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13: Antioxidants and Phytochemicals

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    157540

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    • 13.1: Introduction
      This page emphasizes the significance of antioxidants in health and disease prevention by neutralizing free radicals that cause cellular damage. It also discusses the health benefits of phytochemicals found in various foods, which enhance the body's defense mechanisms. Overall, the content advocates for including foods high in antioxidants and phytochemicals in one's diet to improve health outcomes.
    • 13.2: Antioxidants
      This page examines the rise of "super antioxidant" supplements, noting their unproven health claims and potential risks. It contrasts these supplements with antioxidant-rich whole foods, which offer essential benefits against chronic diseases. The text emphasizes the importance of whole foods that combine various nutrients and reviews specific antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E for their protective roles against free radicals, as well as the role of phytochemicals in promoting overall health.
    • 13.3: Phytochemicals
      This page discusses phytochemicals, which are non-essential plant-derived compounds with potential health benefits, including reduced risks of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. These compounds, such as carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, are abundant in fruits and vegetables. Although their health effects are under investigation, excessive supplementation may lead to toxicity and nutrient interference. Many phytochemicals also exhibit antioxidant properties.
    • 13.4: End Chapter
      This page covers antioxidants, detailing their health benefits, the vitamins that act as antioxidants, and their role in disease prevention. It highlights food sources rich in phytochemicals and explains how free radicals harm the body along with strategies to reduce this damage. The content aligns with MCCCD nutrition and health science competencies.

    This page titled 13: Antioxidants and Phytochemicals was last modified on Sun, 27 Sep 2026 02:34:55 GMT and is shared under a not declared license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Stephanie Green and Kelli Shallal via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform.