Antioxidants are molecules that protect the body from oxidative stress which is a condition where harmful free radicals damage cells and tissues. Antioxidants are found in many foods, including fruits and vegetables. They’re also available as dietary supplements. Antioxidants are recognized as an importance in the prevention of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis and premature aging. In fact, antioxidants play an important role in preventing virtually all digestive diseases because they neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals. The body is constantly bombarded by these highly reactive compounds. Free radicals are present in tobacco smoke, air pollution and rancid dietary fats and are a common breakdown of a normal metabolism. An introduction of a free radical into the body can set up a chain reaction in which thousands of free radical reactions occur within seconds. If free radicals are not neutralized, it can cause irreversible damage to the body’s cells, resulting in major illness and even death. For example, free radical damage to a cell can severely inhibit its ability to transport or absorb oxygen, water, nutrients and eliminate waste. It can also rupture a cell’s membranes, spilling the contents, including damaging enzymes into the surrounding tissue. Free radical can alter the genetic code, increasing the risk of abnormal cell replication and growth, such as seen in the development of cancer. Many major health concerns today have been linked to free radical damage at a cellular level. And of course, the best defense against free radical damage is always a good diet rich in antioxidants. Often times we can not get enough of these vital nutrients from the foods we eat so supplements with antioxidant products is absolutely essential for a better health, more energy and a longer life. In order to get an adequate amount of antioxidants, make sure to add Vitamins A, C, E and Beta Carotene to your daily intake.
How You Can Help By Avoiding
-Over consumption of polyunsaturated fats. (Vegetable oil, fried foods etc.)
-Toxic substances known to contain high level of free radical such as air pollution, radiation, herbicides, pesticides, tobacco smoke, toxic household chemicals and rancid fats.
Foods Rich In Antioxidants
-Vegetables
-Fruits
-Nuts
-Dark chocolate
-Cocoa powder
-Tea (green, black, white)
-Coffee
-Spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg)
-Beans
