Antioxidants - bodyguards of DNA

DNA is at the heart of living cells. This molecule is the decision maker of life, from the moment of conception when the colour of eyes and hair is decided, to the daily routine management of the body. It is essential that DNAremains unchanged through out, otherwise body mechanisms will be seriously affected. DNAis susceptible to attack from "rogue" oxygen or aggressive "free radicals". Antioxidants in fruit juices are a useful tool in the protection of the body against such internal invasions.

Anthocyanins, lycopenes and flavonoids described on the are examples of antioxidants. Indeed, the colour of fruit and vegetables is a good indicator of the presence of antioxidants, for example green vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and spinach and red fruit such as strawberries, raspberries and pomegranates are all high in antioxidants. There is growing evidence that, in conjunction with a healthy life- style, a plentiful supply of antioxidants may protect our bodies from signs of ageing or malfunctions such as heart disease or certain types of cancer.

Throughout the summer the world's atmosphere is replenished with oxygen from trees, which themselves need protection. In the autumn the oxygen-producing green chlorophyll disappears, revealing the protective and brightly coloured antioxidants.