Antioxidants: What do they do?
The body naturally has its own assortment of antioxidants. These include glutathione, melatonin, and certain enzymes. Many times the body’s collection of antioxidants is not enough to counteract the free radicals that come from foods and many environmental factors. Free radical damage causes the cells in the body to fail to repair themselves. When this condition occurs, a condition called oxidative stress develops. This condition has been associated in many diseases such as cancer and Parkinson’s disease.
Antioxidant foods that are high in vitamins C and E, beta carotene, alpha lipoic acids, cartenoids, falvonoids and photochemicals are antioxidants that are created in foods. A diet that is rich in organic whole foods will help protect against disease and support a healthy immune system. This diet should include the following:
· Fresh fruits
· Vegetables
· Herbs
· Berries
· Leafy greens
· Whole grains
· Nuts
· Seeds
· Fish
Healthy diet is the best form of obtaining antioxidants. Many times our diets are guided by work or social schedules and we need to supplement the intake of antioxidants. Many antioxidant products are available and are used to reverse oxidative stress. With good diet choices, exercise and supplements for the antioxidants that we do not get from our diet we can have long healthy lives.
Antioxidant supplements
A large number of health care practitioners believe that the elderly, heavy drinkers, frequent aspiring users, smokers and individuals with compromised immune systems benefit greatly by taking antioxidant supplements. It is also believed that higher levels of antioxidants will aid in preventing many life threatening diseases.
Nutrients combat the effects of oxidation by free radicals, which can deteriorate the immune system and cause needless disease. The human body itself utilizes a range of antioxidants in its defense against harmful elements. Antioxidants are produced by the body, but can also be extracted from various food products such as fruits, vegetables, and meats.
Here is a list of three antioxidants that have been found to be beneficial to good health:
· Acai is an all in one Multi-Vitamin Product, and it has a high amount of lipids that gives you the energy. It has high level of fibers , which are good for the elderly and for people who have problems with digestive organs.
· Green tea extract promotes relaxation. There is research that supports this idea; says that green tea extract will enhance alpha brain waves, which support a feeling of calm and alertness.
· Melatonin supports healthy sleep patterns. The body naturally releases melatonin in response to changes in light, with melatonin levels rising at night. B6 is essential for melatonin production. It is in this way that melatonin helps promote sleep