What are antioxidants,
How can they help your body, and
Where does your body get them from?
Antioxidants help fight oxidation, a normal chemical process that takes place in the body every day. Pollution, environmental factors, natural body functions, and a sundry other things create free radicals.
The body is designed to handle a certain amount of oxidation and free radical activity.
Free radicals are produced through the normal process of metabolism.
Free radicals are molecules in the body that are missing an electron from their chemical structure, which they are constantly trying to replace. In order to stabilize themselves, the free radicals steal electrons from your body. This causes “oxidative stress,” which is damage to the body’s cells and tissues. Some scientists believe that the “oxidative stress” can cause disease and early signs of aging.
“Oxidative stress” occurs when the body does not have enough antioxidants to stabilize the free radicals. Therefore, it is important for your body to obtain enough antioxidants to fight the free radicals. The best natural sources are fruits and vegetables.
Despite numerous studies, no substantial health benefits have been demonstrated for supplemental antioxidants. Antioxidants in food, however, are considered safe.
The best source of antioxidants is a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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