The write up in Wiki on antioxidants had some good insights, regarding fruits and veg vs. vitamin supplements. I take a supplement (centrum 1/2 tab, fish oil tab, calcium, vitamin D, Vit C 500, Glucosamine/ chondroitin). But I also really try to get 7 to 9 serv. of fruits and vegetables, and one apple included, every day.

The article stated that supplements have not been proven to be of benefit for reduction in heart disease and some cancers, the way a diet high in fruits and vegetables have been. May be due to a complex mixture of beneficial nutrients including flavenoids and others. The article has numerous citations for more light reading.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antioxidant