Powerful Anti-Oxidants
Anti-Oxidants are compounds that help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and various diseases, including cancer and heart disease. Anti-Oxidants neutralise free radicals by donating electrons to stabilise them, thereby reducing their harmful effects (apologies for the chemistry lesson!).
There are many different types of anti-oxidants, including:
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, and broccoli, among other sources. Vitamin C is a powerful anti-oxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports the immune system.
Vitamin E (tocopherols and tocotrienols): Found in nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and leafy green vegetables. Vitamin E protects cell membranes from oxidative damage.
Beta-carotene: A precursor to vitamin A found in orange and yellow fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and mangoes. Beta-carotene acts as a potent anti-oxidant and is important for vision and immune function.
Selenium: A mineral found in Brazil nuts, seafood, poultry, and whole grains. Selenium is an essential component of anti-oxidant enzymes that help protect cells from oxidative damage.
Flavonoids: Found in fruits, vegetables, tea, red wine, and cocoa. Flavonoids have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Lycopene: A carotenoid found in tomatoes, watermelon, pink grapefruit, and other red or pink fruits and vegetables. Lycopene is a powerful anti-oxidant that may help protect against certain types of cancer, particularly prostate cancer.
Resveratrol: Found in grapes, red wine, berries, and peanuts. Resveratrol has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may have heart-protective effects.
Anthocyanins: Found in deeply coloured fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, blackberries, red cabbage, and eggplant. Anthocyanins have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and may help improve cardiovascular health.
Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and other anti-oxidant-rich foods can help provide the body with a variety of anti-oxidants to optimise health and vitality, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
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