There is lot of talk about the fitness benefits of antioxidants in the news and in current health studies. And while that might be attention-grabbing news, some of you may be wondering what antioxidants are and what they accomplish. Are there various types of antioxidants? How do we obtain a sufficient amount of them in the food that we eat? And how does eating a diet high in antioxidants srenghthen our bodies capability to defend against free radicals?
Free radicals are disabled by the use of antioxidants. Thes free radicals are reactive molecules that steal electrons from our cells causing severe damage to them. We are in a never ending battle with the free radicals,and their levels increase when we are exposed to injury, polution, illness, and stress.
Recent studies have also linked the free radicals damage to accelerated aging and other health problems. In order to protect ourselves we need to take more antioxidants to fight off the increased exposure to the free radicals that we encounter every day.
Vitamins C and D, and slenium and beta carotene are examples of some of the most powerful antioxidants. By combining all of them together you can create a powerful immune system and effectively destroy the free radicals. Our body produces a few enzymes that feed on the free radicals, but they are not enough control all of the free radicals that are introduced to our bodies. We dont manufacture antioxidants in our bodies, therefore we need to consume foods that are high in antioxidants like fruit and vegetables.
Vitamin A helps bone and teeth development and promotes good vision. As an antioxidant, it protects cell membranes and fatty tissue, helps repair damage caused by air pollutants, and supports the immune system. Foods rich in vitamin A include liver, eggs, and some dairy products.
Carotenoids lower the risk of heart disease, some types of cancer, and help to strengthen the immune system. They are found in a variety of fruits and vegetables such as carrots, pumpkins, kale, spinach, tomatoes, and pink grapefruit.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which supports the immune system and the cardiovascular system.Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which supports the immune system and the cardiovascular system. Good sources include citrus fruits and juices, green peppers, cabbage, spinach, broccoli, kale, cantaloupe, kiwi, and strawberries.
Good sources of vitamin E include nuts, seeds, fish oils, whole grains, and apricots.Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant by itself, but is magnified when it is taken with other antioxidants such as selenium, beta carotene, and vitamin C.
Flavonoids are a pigment in plants and fruits that acts as an antioxidant to protect against damage from free radicals. In the body, flavonoids enhance the beneficial activities of vitamin C and can help support a healthy immune system. They are found primarily in vegetables and fruits,dark chocalate, as well as green or black tea.
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