What are the benefits of antioxidants for your health?
Molecules are bound together by electron sharing.
Each oxygen atom in water, for example, shares electrons two hydrogen atoms. Water molecules are stable because of the sharing of electrons.
Free radicals are molecules that have unpaired electrons. They are unstable and very reactive because of this. They tend to quickly bind with other molecules in order to become more stabile.
Free Radicals In Your Body
When your body breaks down the different materials you’re exposed to, such as sunlight, food, and pollution, it produces reactive oxygen species, a type free radical. This is a byproduct of normal cellular metabolism.
These reactive oxygen species are able to cause serious damage to the DNA and cells of your body. This condition is called oxidative strain.
Oxidative Stress has been linked with the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Antioxidants to Save the Day
Your body is equipped with a defense system that can protect you from oxidative stress. This system is composed of enzymes, vitamins and other molecules which neutralize free radicals.
These antioxidants are known as .
Antioxidants come in many forms, but the most important are vitamins C and E as well as beta-carotene and flavonoids.
Antioxidants are mainly obtained from foods. Antioxidants are found in fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains.
The antioxidants in vegetables and fruits are beneficial.
Your cells and tissues are likely to be damaged by reactive oxygen species that your body produces if you don’t get enough antioxidants.
Dietary approaches that emphasize a high intake of foods rich in antioxidants have consistently been shown to improve health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Should you take antioxidant supplements?
Antioxidants are essential for maintaining and improving health. You may be wondering if you need to take antioxidant supplements.
There is no evidence to support the claim that antioxidant supplements are beneficial. It may be that the antioxidants are less effectively absorbed and used when taken as pills.
Antioxidant supplements can also have negative effects, as they interfere with the body’s normal mechanisms to deal with oxidative stresses. This is especially true if you take them in high doses.
It is for these reasons that it is recommended to obtain your antioxidants through whole foods rather than supplements. You can get the essential nutrients from these foods as well.
