Almost every day we hear reports about antioxidants. But many people aren't really sure what they are - and what they do.

Antioxidants are substances found in many fruits and vegetables. Some of them are Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Beta carotene, Lycopene and Genistein. Our bodies also make a certain amount of antioxidants. These substances are important because they help to rid the body of "free radicals" which are unstable molecules produced during normal body processes. Free radicals are also released into the body with certain toxic substances, such as cigarette smoke and air pollution.

In order to have enough antioxidants to fight free radicals, we should take in at least 5-10 servings of fruits and vegetables. Because different vegetables contain different antioxidants, it’s best to get a variety of brightly colored choices.

Try green leafy veggies such as spinach and kale, orange selections such as mango, peaches, and squash, and red strawberries, watermelon, and tomatoes. And if you're wondering about supplements, it's best to take your antioxidants in food. It's not known exactly how antioxidants work together to eliminate free radicals, and so we may not get the right combination in a supplement. There may also be some as yet undiscovered antioxidants working in the foods we eat.