A Not-So-Radical Diet

For a while now, scientists have been aware of the benefits of fruit and veg in combating the ravages of free radicals. Recent research seems to show that they possess life-giving, life-prolonging, and cancer-preventing properties. After years of being told that we must eat our greens, it seems that there are more compelling reasons than the far-off likelihood of catastrophic hair an tooth loss.

Here's why:

Free radicals contribute to the natural deterioration of cells and tissues by causing oxidation, much in the same way that apples and bananas go brown when left out in the air. Because of the damage caused, they are often linked to the process of ageing and weakening of organs and systems. Another consequence of this effect is disease, the most noted of all being cancer. Although outside agents such as pollution, smoke and UV radiation produce free radicals, they are also created naturally through the mere process of living. The body breaks these potentially harmful entities down. However, when free radical production exceeds the body's ability to delete them, they can wreak havoc.

Anti-oxidants to the rescue

Increasing studies into anti-oxidants seem to reveal more and more of their saintly credentials. There has been fervid activity in the field of cancer research and the effects of anti-oxidants, most of which comes up with positive, although not miraculous, results. The research into the counter-ageing effects of anti-oxidants is still in its embryonic stage, and as of yet cannot bring complete peace of mind to those striving for eternal life.

The encouraging news is that these magical molecules are prevalent and easily accessible. Some are produced in the body, others are present in A, C and E vitamins, and are found in fruit and vegetables.

Anti-Cancerous properties

When free radicals start damaging cells, and affecting the DNA, major catastrophes can occur. On a very basic level, cancers are caused by mutation, which in turn is created by damage to the genetic code in DNA. The code is a type of blueprint that details how, when and where cells are to be built. A fault in the blueprint affecting how often cells are to be made can lead to very rapid, out-of-control replication. Unchecked growth of this kind is commonly called a tumour.

Although they are only one of the known contributors to cancer, it is obviously beneficial to reduce the amount of free radicals present in the body. There has been a profusion of research projects on the extent of the benefit of anti-oxidants in fighting the effects of free radicals. The results are impressive.

In fact, so strong is this evidence, that high street chemists are starting to stock anti-oxidant supplements in pill form. However, unless you have fruitiphobia, there seems to be more sense in making minor changes to your eating habits than in simply adding another pot of pills to the bathroom cabinet.

If you want to know more about cancer prevention diets,