Research shows that free radical damage is involved in the early stages of chronic conditions including atherosclerosis. Some studies have showed that people with low intakes of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables were at greater risk for developing these chronic conditions than those who ate plenty of these fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E have been shown to be powerful antioxidants by reducing inflammation and neutralising free radical damage.

Okinawa in Japan has more than 400 centurians and one of the highest life expectancies in the world, and the Okinawans consider drinking green tea every day essential. Green tea is particularly rich in health-promoting flavonoids, including catechins; the most abundant catechin in green tea is epigallocatechin-3-gallate. Research has shown that this compound found in green tea modulates the inflammation within cells.

Natural food sources that are high in selenium include Brazil nuts, eggs, liver, tuna and sunflower seeds. Selenium helps the immune system by reducing free radical damage. Selenium has a synergistic effect with other antioxidants like vitamin E, enabling the body to fight oxidative stress and defend against chronic conditions. Selenium is an essential component of glutathione peroxidase, which is an important enzyme for processes that protect cell membranes. Selenium is needed to fight oxidative degradation of cells and protect against mutation and DNA damage that can cause disease.

Taking dietary supplements of the carotenoid zeaxanthin may reduce wrinkles. Published data shows that zeaxanthin may protect against the damaging effects of UV light on the skin. Skin has been reported to reflect inner-health.