What do plant-based foods contain that is vital for antioxidant defenses?

The correct answer is that plant-based foods contain polyphenols, which are vital for antioxidant defenses. Polyphenols are a group of naturally occurring compounds found in plants that possess antioxidant properties. They help to neutralize free radicals, potentially reducing oxidative stress in the body and protecting cells from damage.

Plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, teas, and wine are significant sources of polyphenols, and their diverse range offers various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects and support for heart health.

Glutathione peroxidases, while important enzymes in the antioxidant defense system, are not derived from plant-based foods but are instead produced by the body to help combat oxidative stress by utilizing glutathione, an important antioxidant.

Vitamin C is indeed an essential antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables, playing a crucial role in the immune response and skin health. However, it is not as broad-spectrum as polyphenols in terms of variety and mechanisms in plant-based foods.

Beta-carotene, a type of carotenoid found in orange and yellow fruits and vegetables, also contributes to the body's antioxidant defense by being converted into vitamin A. While important, it does not encompass the wider range of benefits that polyphenols provide