Antioxidants can help to neutralise damage from debilitating diseases such as cancer, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular diseases, according to a new study funded by the American Heart Association.
Research from South Carolina's Clemson University chemists showed that antioxidants naturally bind to iron and copper present in the body, stopping reactive oxygen compounds which damage DNA from forming.
Previous studies have found that antioxidants can be found in a variety of sources, particularly fruits, vegetables, green tea, garlic and onions.
Chemist and lead investigator of the research Julie Brumaghim said: "Our studies have shown that antioxidants even at low concentrations found in these foods bind to iron and copper and prevent DNA damage.
"This goes a long way in understanding how antioxidant supplements might help treat or even prevent these debilitating illnesses," she added.
The results are to be presented at the 234th annual American Chemical Society meeting in Boston, and it is hoped that the team will go on to test bacterial cells before moving on to human cells.
Antioxidants can help to neutralise damage from debilitating diseases such as cancer, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular diseases, according to a new study funded by the American Heart Association.
