If you are like me you are familiar with hearing the term "Antioxidant" being used rather frequently. Health gurus all over the world are telling us we need antioxidants to help repair the normal every day stresses are body endures.
The term antioxidant starts with "anti", meaning opposed to or against. Let's find out what we are opposed to, the oxidant.
Common every day examples of oxidative stress are apples turning brown or new copper turning green, or what is known as "patina." Perhaps the most well known example of oxidation can be seen on The Statue of Liberty. As you can see, once copper in color the Statue is now commonly known as patina green in color.
While oxidation is a normal physiological process that is good for us, too much of it causes the imbalance explained above. This stress then causes irreparable damage to our cells. This is where "Antioxidants" such as resveratrol come into play.
Antioxidants work by seeking out free radicals and neutralizing their existence. This causes the antioxidant itself to become oxidized and therefore useless once it has been used for repair. Because of this "sacrifice" it is necessary to always be replenishing our antioxidant supply.
Antioxidants can be found in the following foods:
Berries, Broccoli, Grapes (preferably red), Garlic, Soy, Beans, Nuts, Green Tea, & Apples.
Antioxidant Supplements:
Resveratrol, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Beta Carotene, Selenium, Zinc, & Copper.
The good news is we have options for consuming antioxidants. If we can't get enough through our regular diets there are many supplements and vitamins available to help assist us. Make sure antioxidants are a part of your diet! Take some pressure off your body by lending it a hand against fighting free radicals.
Who knows, it might just help you live a little longer, healthier!
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