Beta-carotene, or vitamin A precursor, is the orange pigment of plants that are not destroyed by heat. It has been shown that this substance is related to the prevention of cancer, strokes and heart attacks, but also strengthens the immune system and eliminates free oxygen atoms, also called free radicals.
The yellow pigment or beta-carotene found in deep orange vegetables and dark green leaves. The more intense the color, the richer the carotenoids food. Contain beta carotene carrots, pumpkin, papaya, chard, lettuce, spinach, peppers, tomatoes and mature between others.
Selenium is an antioxidant mineral considered essential to human health, which works together with an antioxidant enzyme and vitamin E to counteract cell damage. Selenium deficiency is associated with muscular dystrophy, heart disease, increased risk of infections, brain degenerative processes, weakness, whitish nail and increased risk of cancer. Selenium also protects against heavy metal poisoning such as mercury, lead, cadmium and silver. The daily requirement of this mineral for adults are tiny.
In selenium-rich foods include: puffed wheat, fish in general, fresh tuna and canned, but if in water than oil. Also sources of selenium are organ meats such as heart, liver and kidneys of poultry, bread, wheat germ, brewer's yeast, egg yolk and garlic.
