The consumption of some dietary supplements may help prevent cancer. A number of essential vitamins, including vitamins A, C and E, act as antioxidants in the body. They work to neutralize chemicals called free radicals that cause oxidative damage within your cells.

The National Cancer Institute explains that oxidative damage to your cells promotes cancer development. While studies on the effect of antioxidant supplements in preventing cancer in humans have proved inconsistent so far, consuming moderate amounts of antioxidant vitamin supplements may prove beneficial to your health.