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As society continues to find new and better ways to combat disease and improve overall health, we are led again and again to the role our diet plays in keeping our bodies working at their most efficient. It's no secret that the way we eat greatly impacts our susceptibility to all manner of illness; so it stands to reason that for those of who wish to improve our health and protect ourselves as much as possible from illness, we turn to the properties of whole foods. In their natural state, whole foods provide a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

The human body is made up of a system of organized cells that work together to do a variety of jobs. When cells rebel against this network they become known as free radicals. Free radicals can cause cancer. Antioxidants are certain substances that work to stabilize free radicals and repair damage done in their wake. They have been shown to slow ' and even prevent ' cancer.

While studies are still being done on the positive effects of antioxidants, researchers agree that eating foods abundant in these nutrients will stand to increase the body's overall health and efficiency. Such foods include: green leafy vegetables such as spinach which contain the antioxidant lutein; fruits such as apricots, watermelon, and tomatoes and tomato products, all of which contain lycopene; and vegetables rich in beta-carotene such as carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes. Foods rich in Vitamins A (eggs and milk), C (fruits and vegetables), and E (nuts and broccoli) have also been shown to be high in antioxidants.

In general, increasing your daily consumption of fruits and vegetables and focusing on whole foods, will improve your overall health and put you in the best possible position to fight disease.

There is research continuing to be done everyday on the role that antioxidants will play in our present and future health. Take the time to learn about how food impacts your body and work with your doctor to find ways to introduce foods high in antioxidants into your diet. You will very quickly be rewarded by looking and feeling better than you could have ever expected.