Antioxidants

There seems to be some controversy over how good for you antioxidants actually are. According to the Web MD, "Antioxidants protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Many experts believe this damage is a factor in the development of blood vessel disease (atherosclerosis), cancer, and other conditions ... Antioxidants include some vitamins (such as vitamins C and E), some minerals (such as selenium), and flavonoids, which are found in plants. The best sources of antioxidants are fruits and vegetables. You can find flavonoids in fruits, red wine, and teas."

You can be exposed to free radicals through pollutants, and in the way the body processes certain medicines.

Wikipedia is sceptical: "Although certain levels of antioxidant vitamins in the diet are required for good health, there is considerable debate on whether antioxidant-rich foods or supplements have anti-disease activity."

The Web MD concludes that "[although] you can also buy antioxidant supplements ... it is best to obtain antioxidants from a healthy diet."

All sources seem somewhat reluctant to suggest that red wine is a good source of antioxidants!