Antioxidants protect immune system
By Joyce Goldstein, RD, MA Special to the Acorn

It seems there's so much talk these days about antioxidants that sometimes it can be somewhat confusing and overwhelming. So here's a quick overview to provide a better understanding of what antioxidants are and how they support your immune system.

So, what are antioxidants?

Antioxidants are molecules in our blood that are involved in the prevention of cellular damage, also known as "free radical" damage, which is why antioxidants are referred to as "freeradical scavengers." Antioxidants play an important role in immune health and disease prevention. These protective molecules are found in foods that contain Vitamins A (beta-carotene), C, E and zinc.

Vitamin A: Vitamin A is actually a family of fat-soluble (works in fat-containing parts of the body) vitamins. Vitamin A plays an essential role in immune system functions, vision, growth and development, and healthy skin and hair development.

Beta-carotene: Beta-carotene is one of a group of antioxidants called carotenoids. Carotenoids are the pigments that give the red, yellow, orange and green colors to fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is converted in the body to Vitamin A, but only in amounts that the body can use. Other carotenoids include lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a water-soluble (works in the watery areas of the body) antioxidant vitamin. It plays an important role in improving immune system functions, especially in combination with Vitamin E.

Vitamin C helps to regenerate the antioxidant activity of Vitamin E after it has been used by the body. It also assists in forming collagen, a protein that gives structure to bones, cartilage, muscles, blood vessels and skin. Vitamin C also aids in the absorption of iron, which helps carry oxygen throughout the body.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is also a fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin. Its role includes improving the immune system functions (especially in combination with Vitamin C), maintaining the metabolism of all cells, protecting Vitamin A from oxidation and preventing the breakdown of body tissue.

Zinc: Zinc is an essential mineral found in almost every cell of the body. It focuses on supporting a healthy immune system, healing wounds and maintaining the senses of taste and smell. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood and adolescence.

Joyce Goldstein, RD, MA, is the director of food and nutrition services at Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center.