Fundamentals of Antioxidants and Your Health
What are antioxidants?
*Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow down the oxidation of other molecules. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can damage cells and tissues.
How do antioxidants work?
*Antioxidants work by donating electrons to free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and tissues. By donating electrons, antioxidants can help to neutralize free radicals and prevent them from causing damage.
What are the benefits of antioxidants?
*There are many potential benefits of antioxidants, including:
-Reduced risk of heart disease
-Reduced risk of cancer
-Reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease
-Reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease
Types of antioxidants
There are two main types of antioxidants: natural antioxidants and synthetic antioxidants.
Natural antioxidants
Natural antioxidants are found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dark chocolate.
Synthetic antioxidants
Synthetic antioxidants are added to foods and beverages to prevent them from spoiling.
Food sources of antioxidants
Fruits
Vegetables
Nuts
Seeds
Whole grains
Dark chocolate
*Some of the best food sources of antioxidants include:
–Fruits: berries, citrus fruits, apples, grapes, tomatoes
–Vegetables: leafy green vegetables, broccoli, carrots, peppers
–Nuts: almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts
–Seeds: chia seeds, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds
–Whole grains: brown rice, quinoa, oats
–Dark chocolate
Antioxidants and disease prevention
There is a growing body of research that suggests that antioxidants may help to prevent a variety of diseases, including:
–Heart disease
–Cancer
–Alzheimer’s disease
–Parkinson’s disease
However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Antioxidants and supplements
Are antioxidant supplements effective?
-Antioxidant supplements are available over-the-counter.
-Some people take antioxidant supplements in an attempt to improve their health or prevent disease.
Potential side effects of antioxidant supplements
However, there is limited evidence to support the use of antioxidant supplements for these purposes.
In fact, some studies have shown that antioxidant supplements may actually be harmful.
Conclusion
The importance of antioxidants for health
Antioxidants are important for health.
Ways to get more antioxidants in your diet
You can get antioxidants from a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dark chocolate.
Please note:
-Antioxidant supplements are not a substitute for a healthy diet.
-If you are considering taking antioxidant supplements, talk to your doctor first.
Top Antioxidants
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