VEGETABLES AND FRUITS ARE SOURCES OF vitamins A, C and E, fiber and several key minerals. But they also boast good amounts of antioxidants and phytochemicals -two terms that might not seem as restaurant-friendly or familiar. Recent research reveals that antioxidants may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, heart disease and other chronic health problems. Both vitamin C and beta carotene (a form of vitamin A) are classified as antioxidants.