dietary antioxidants and CVD

Antioxidants

molecules that inhibit oxidation protecting cells from free radicals which may play a role in heart disease

Free radicals

molecules produced when the body breaks down food or when exposed to tobacco smoke or radiation

Oxidation

a chemical reaction that produces free radicals leading to chain reactions which may damage the cells of organisms

Vitamin A is found in

orange vegetables such as carrots and sweet potato

Vitamin C is found in

citrus fruits

Vitamin E is found in

leafy vegetables, some nuts and some oils

Vitamin C is important in

the formation of connective tissue in the body such as bones, teeth and skin, and the endothelial lining of blood vessels increasing

Lack of vitamin C causes

scurvy - bleeding gums, bruising easily and painful joints

Explain how dietary antioxidants may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease

Antioxidants reduce free radicals, free radicals cause cell damage and antioxidants reduce plaque and atheroma formation