Final answer:
Supplementing with antioxidants like vitamins C and E may not provide the same cancer prevention benefits as consuming a diet naturally rich in these vitamins from fruits and vegetables. Healthier lifestyles typically associated with supplement use may contribute to the observed benefits rather than the supplements themselves.
Step-by-step explanation:
While it is true that antioxidants like vitamins C and E can protect cells from damage by free radicals, and a diet high in fruits and vegetables has been associated with a lower risk of certain cancers, the evidence does not conclusively support taking antioxidant supplements to prevent cancer. Studies have suggested that the protective effect may come from the complex mix of compounds found in whole foods rather than from supplements. Moreover, merely taking vitamin E does not guarantee better health, as those who take supplements often engage in other health-promoting behaviors like regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Therefore, in sharing your opinion with your aunt, it would be important to mention that a holistic approach to health, including a diet naturally rich in antioxidants from a variety of fruits and vegetables, regular physical activity, and avoidance of known carcinogens like tobacco smoke and excessive UV radiation, is more likely to be effective in reducing cancer risk than relying on supplements alone.