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Daily Tip: 4/19/2006
By: Dr. Andrew Weil M.D.
Spending time with a smoker - even sitting near one in a restaurant or other public place - exposes you to second-hand smoke, which is suspected of killing thousands of nonsmokers every year. Second-hand smoke can also cause or worsen respiratory infections, ear infections and asthma. In addition to avoiding smokers and smoky places, you can help protect yourself from the effects of second-hand smoke by taking a daily multivitamin that includes these antioxidants:
Vitamin E. A powerful antioxidant that protects cell membranes and helps prevent LDL ("bad") cholesterol from oxidizing.
Vitamin C. A water-soluble vitamin that also functions as a powerful antioxidant.
Selenium. This activates an antioxidant enzyme called glutathione peroxidase, which helps the body eliminate smoke-associated toxins.
Carotenoids. Beta-carotene, in conjunction with other carotenes, acts as an antioxidant and immune system booster. Other members of the antioxidant carotene family include alpha-carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein and lycopene.
Coenyzme Q10 (CoQ10). Essential in cellular energy production, CoQ10 has antioxidant properties that help protect the body from free radicals.
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