This is Why You Need to Make Antioxidants a Priority
Oxidation is all around us. The chemical process that occurs when you notice an apple brown, or a chain link fence rust is called oxidation and it’s happening right now, inside the body.
The body is responsible for continuously producing energy through the metabolic process. This is when the body takes what’s ingested and breaks it down to be used. During this process, free radicals are created to fight disease and break down toxins. However, free radicals can also be absorbed through pollutants, X-rays, smoking, and industrial chemicals. Thus free radicals can become overabundant in relation to their counterpart, antioxidants. This results in oxidative stress.
Free radical damage, oxidative stress, done in the body coincides with the aging process and can accelerate environmental and genetic pre-dispositions to disease and cancers. In fact, it’s now believed that oxidative stress is linked to all inflammatory conditions. To combat this, the body produces antioxidants. At times, naturally produced antioxidants are just not enough. You can boost your body’s natural defenses through an abundant source of antioxidant rich foods. Foods that contains vitamins E,C, and carotene are high in antioxidants along with minerals selenium, copper zinc, and manganese.
Spot foods naturally rich in antioxidants by their color. Deep reds, purples, blues, oranges and yellows will have the most free radical fighting compounds. Some examples of antioxidant abundant foods are sweet potatoes, berries, citrus fruits, bell peppers, kale, carrot, and pumpkin. Pay attention to how you prepare your foods as well. Some antioxidants are best absorbed when cooked, like in tomatoes, unlike broccoli, which is best consumed raw. For the most part, it’s best to eat fruits and vegetables washed and unpeeled (when applicable) to benefit the most from their antioxidant levels.
Antioxidants helps combat oxidative stress caused by an imbalance of free radicals in the body. It can be easy to go over board when wanting to bolster your body’s natural defenses. Keep the body stable by obtaining antioxidants through food rather than supplements. Aim for the recommended 5-7 servings of fruits and vegetables a day, limit exposure to pollutants, and reduce harmful habits like smoking to best support your body’s fight against oxidation.