A different type of stress - oxidative stress - is a natural process that occurs in your body. As a part of the metabolic process free radicals - atoms or a group of atoms with unpaired electrons - can be formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. Free radicals are also created when your body is exposed to pollution radiation or cigarette smoke. Normally your body uses antioxidants to "mop" up and eliminate free radicals before they can react with and damage cells and DNA. Free radical damage has been linked to arterial aging and cancer. Vitamin C and vitamin E are excellent antioxidants and can be obtained from a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables. A well-balanced diet should supply enough of these and other necessary vitamins - A B D - and minerals - zinc iron potassium selenium. However taking a daily multivitamin supplement is recommended as a safety net and to guard against long-term damage. Supplements should never be considered a replacement source of vitamins and minerals which tend to work best when absorbed from food. In addition to a multivitamin research suggests that a daily "baby" dose of aspirin (half of an adult pill or 162 milligrams) may have a beneficial effect for those at risk of cardiovascular disease. The active ingredient in aspirin - acetylsalicylic acid - has long been used as a medication to relieve pain and inflammation. Aspirin also slows down clot production which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Consult a healthcare professional as to the recommended daily dose of vitamins and supplements that work best for you. Aspirin can cause stomach upset and too much of any one vitamin can be harmful to your health. Some vitamins can interfere with prescribed medication especially statins.