Lately it seems that you can’t turn on the television or stroll down the grocery aisle without seeing the word “antioxidant”. But, how many of you really know what an antioxidant is, and what it does?…Well, welcome to “Antioxidants 101”!
Antioxidants are substances that protect cells from damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals. “Oxidation” occurs naturally in the human body when incomplete “free radical” oxygen molecules grab a hydrogen ion from a nearby molecule, which in turn grabs one from another structure, setting off a chain reaction that could lead to tissue damage. Without enough antioxidants, which prevent or stop the chain reaction, free radicals can multiply putting stress on the body’s defense systems. Free radicals in tobacco smoke and air pollution add to the load. Something else that increases the amount of free radicals in your body (quite surprising!) is very intense exercise. So if you are exercising intensely on a daily basis….in an effort to improve your overall health…listen up!
It has been shown convincingly that those who eat more antioxidant-rich foods are less likely to suffer from heart disease, stroke, cataracts and cancer. Antioxidants have also been shown to help keep your immune & cardiovascular system strong and prevent premature aging.
Wow!…You can see what an important role antioxidants play in maintaining your health. Now, lets take a look at some excellent ways to increase your daily dose of antioxidants…You’ll love it!…Because it is VERY simple!
Fruits are rich sources of antioxidants. In fact a recent study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry lists the top twenty foods that rank the highest in oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). They include wild blueberries, cultivated blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries. Recently some exotic fruits such as pomegranate, noni and mangosteen have gained popularity because it has been shown that they are also a rich source of antioxidants. Evidence strongly suggests that it is best to eat antioxidants in foods instead of supplements. Deficiency of selenium, zinc or copper and reduce antioxidant defenses, and excess iron can encourage oxidation.
Well, hopefully that helps you achieve a better understanding of the role antioxidants play. Additionally, hopefully you also understand how simple it is to increase those antioxidants in your diet. It’s a great time of year to indulge in some fresh berries. (just a note….try not to cover them in some high-sugar/cream topping)…train your pallet to eat them “au natural”…enjoying the wonderful sweet flavor nature has given them. Good luck & enjoy!!!
Believe & you WILL achieve!!
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