antioxidants

Last reviewed 01/2018

Antioxidants are molecules which:

  • inhibit free radical formation
  • inhibit free radical propagation

Examples include:

  • vitamin E
  • cysteine
  • glutathione
  • caeruloplasmin
  • transferrin

A meta-analysis stated that:

  • the authors found no evidence to support antioxidant supplements for primary or secondary prevention
    • vitamin A, beta-carotene, and vitamin E may increase mortality
    • the data concerning vitamin C and selenium were inconclusive

Reference: