Antioxidants

To value the potential benefits of antioxidants, you should first know what an antioxidant is. They are anything that slows down or stops oxidation, a chemical reaction involving the uptake of oxygen. Many metabolic processes use oxygen and result in the release of new oxygen-containing molecules that can consequently damage cells and body tissues and cause disease. An antioxidant is what mops up these oxygen-containing "free radicals" and removes them before they can do any damage.

Free radicals are thought to play a significant role in the development of cancer, physical changes associated with aging, heart disease, and other health problems. Among the labeled and suggested antioxidants benefits are protection of the central nervous system, good eye health with prevention of degenerative eye diseases, protection against cancer, a stronger immune system, and cardiovascular health with better protection against heart attacks and strokes. However, these benefits of antioxidants are obtained by eating a wide range of different healthy foods, and not just by taking high doses of a specific antioxidant. In fact, high doses of antioxidants may do more harm than good.

The best way to enjoy the benefits of antioxidants is the traditional way by eating a healthy diet rich in plant sources and combine this with a healthy active lifestyle. The bottom line is, eat healthy and make sure you're getting plenty of fruits and vegetables every day and talk to your doctor about certain health problems.

This is only a brief overview of antioxidants, keep coming back for more information!

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