It’s widely accepted that antioxidants have a profound protective impact on our health. In fact, it's so well accepted that the word ‘antioxidant’ is often used to sell health products, foods, skincare and even pet foods!
But what are antioxidants, and why are they considered so healthy?
Antioxidants are molecules that play critical role protecting our cells from the harmful impact of free radicals.
Free radicals are unstable molecules produced as bi-products of normal physiological function. Free radicals are increased by chemicals, toxins, pollutants, stress, and naturally as we age. Left unchecked, free radicals multiply quickly and can damage cells, cell proteins, and DNA. Free-radical damage is implicated in most chronic diseases.
Antioxidants counteract the effects of free radicals.
They neutralise free radicals and prevent them from multiplying. In doing so, antioxidants maintain a healthy balance between free radical production and elimination. By reducing the number of free radicals in the body antioxidants help minimise the cell and tissue damage they may cause.
Here are some more compelling reasons antioxidants are good for your health:
1. Cellular Protection: As noted, antioxidants neutralise free radicals and reduce the number of new free radicals formed. This is fundamentally protective for the integrity and functioning of our cells, safeguarding general health.
2. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions, are linked to oxidative stress caused by excess free radicals. A diet rich in antioxidants may help reduce the risk of developing these diseases by neutralising free radicals.
3. Anti-Aging Effects: Oxidative stress is a major contributor to the aging process. By reducing free radicals and oxidative stress, antioxidants effectively help to reduce the speed and impact of the aging process.
4. Immune System Support: A well-functioning immune system relies on a healthy balance between oxidative stress and antioxidants. Adequate antioxidant intake can bolster your body's immune response, helping it fend off infections and diseases more effectively.
5. Skin Health: Skin is the body's largest organ and is exposed to the environment, making it particularly susceptible to oxidative damage, for example, burning from the sun. Antioxidants, when applied topically or consumed through the diet, can help maintain more youthful and healthier skin.
6. Cardiovascular Health: Antioxidants have been linked to improved heart health by reducing inflammation and preventing oxidative damage to blood vessels. This can lower the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular function.
7. Vision Protection: Antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, have been found to protect the eyes from oxidative damage and may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
To harness the full benefits of antioxidants, it's essential to incorporate a variety of these compounds into your diet.
Where to find antioxidants
Some of the best food sources of antioxidants are dark coloured fruits and vegetables, dark chocolate, most fresh herbs, nuts and seeds. Vitamins C and E and minerals like selenium and zinc are well known antioxidants with a capacity to scavenge free radicals.
Phytochemicals from plant-based foods, such as flavonoids and polyphenols are potent antioxidants with a wide range of health benefits. Propolis is an excellent example of a powerful antioxidant high in flavonoids.
While antioxidants are essential for good health, they're not a magic solution to all health problems.
Antioxidants are part of a holistic approach to maintaining health and preventing disease. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, combined with regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and other healthy lifestyle choices, is the most effective way to protect your body from oxidative stress and maintain overall well-being.
Antioxidant supplements are an excellent way to support the increasing need for antioxidants as we age, and when diet sources are inadequate.
Antioxidants are not a stand alone solution, but they are fundamental to good health, protecting our cells, reducing risk of chronic disease, supporting immune strength and promoting healthy aging.
To get the most from your antioxidant consumption, combine dietary antioxidants and supplements with healthy lifestyle choices. This combination makes a significant contribution towards a healthier and more vibrant life.
Supplemental antioxidant support: