Antioxidants and Cancer In order to comprehend antioxidants and cancer prevention, we must first realize what antioxidants are and then how they help our bodies fight cancer. Research scientists don't fully understand the relationship between antioxidants and cancer prevention, but nonprofits, private organizations, and governments are engaged in ongoing research to look into potential pros and cons and different medical interactions. Antioxidants An antioxidantis a molecule capable of slowing or preventing the oxidation of other molecules (Wikipeda). In other words it is a molecule that may be used to help protect cells from the harmful effects of unstable molecules known as free radicals. The harmful damage caused by free radicals could possibly cause cancer. As the body ages, free radicals naturally occur, and the long term damage they create may lead to changes in cells eventually causing severe tumors. Evidence from laboratory studies including chemical, cell culture, and animal indicates that antioxidants may hinder or possibly prevent cancer. The benefits of antioxidants has encouraged people to turn to supplements . Many people hope that larger amounts of these compounds will have a more protective effect. Antioxidants are abundantly found in nuts, grains, fruits and vegetables, as well as some meats, poultry, and fish. Antioxidants and Cancer The media has highly publicized the link between antioxidants and cancer prevention. But there have been mixed results on research into the effects of different antioxidants on cancer. Because different foods contain different amounts of antioxidants, as well as numerous other substances that could influence cancer risk, it is highly difficult for researchers to answer this question. Some concerns have been raised that antioxidants might be harmful when given with cancer treatment because they could help the cancer cells heal themselves. In fact, a recent report by the US Preventive Services Task Force concluded that there is not enough evidence to either recommend for or against taking vitamins (including antioxidants) for cancer prevention. Several doctors and colleagues examined studies into antioxidants and cancer therapy in the May 27 online edition of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Researchers found that there were only three controlled studies on radiation and antioxidants. One of these studies found that the probability of death was raised when given antioxidant treatment. Researchers said that the antioxidants may protect cancer cells from harm just like normal cells, hence preventing cancer treatments from killing tumors. The researchers also found 16 randomized controlled trials, but the findings were not conclusive. Overall the study appears to show that high-dose supplements may do more harm than good. The problem facing doctors today is that too little is known about how antioxidant supplements actually act against disease. Due to the few and varied studies done on antioxidants, doctors are finding it very difficult to give people advice on the subject. Until researchers know more and better studies are done, experts say to eat a healthy balanced diet to help lower the risk of cancer. Next, learn about antioxidants and how they prevent cancer at Antioxidants and Cancer.
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