Antioxidants have been touted for more than a decade now for their various health benefits. Yet science is only beginning to scratch the surface of the important role these nutrients play in the human body and the degree to which a person needs them.

For example, a recent study published in the journal BMC Gastroenterology showed that the antioxidant luteolin may provide powerful support for digestive health. While this is not the first investigation to make this suggestion, it may be the most convincing.

The present investigation examined the health of individuals in relation to the amount of fruits and vegetables containing luteolin they consumed. Prior studies that have looked into the health benefits of the antioxidant simply assessed its effects on cells taken from the body.

The researchers said that studying how a substance actually affects living, breathing humans is the best way to determine its full health benefits. Without this type of evidence, it is difficult for doctors and nutritionists to make specific dietary recommendations.

Luteolin is primarily found in celery, green peppers and carrots. Individuals may also be able to obtain nutritional supplements containing a full day's supply of the important antioxidant.