What are antioxidants and why are they good for me?
Antioxidants are naturally occurring molecules that help fight free radicals which cause oxidative damage to DNA in the body.
Free radicals are formed during the body’s normal metabolic process and through general wear and tear on body cells. Sometimes the body’s immune system’s cells purposefully create them to neutralise viruses and bacteria. However, environmental factors such as pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke, fatty fast foods and herbicides can also spawn free radicals. To prevent free radical damage, the body has a defence system of antioxidants. Free radicals are considered harmful to our health as they can cause damage to the cells in our bodies and may hasten the processes of ageing.
How do antioxidants contribute to our health and well-being?
Normally, the body can handle free radicals, but if antioxidants are unavailable or if the free-radical production becomes excessive, damage can occur. Antioxidants act as scavengers, helping to fight free radicals and prevent cell and tissue damage that could lead to cellular damage and disease. Antioxidants therefore help to maintain our general health and well-being.
How can you increase your intake of antioxidants?
There are many kinds of antioxidants. Some are produced by the body and others are derived from the foods we eat. When the body’s natural antioxidant defences are lowered, or greater amounts of free radicals are being produced, for example, when fighting infection, the body becomes more dependent upon food sources of antioxidants. The good news is there are many foods that we eat each day that contain beneficial antioxidants: fruit, vegetables, tea and wholegrains. There are also many supplements available to help increase your intake of antioxidants. Such supplements include ingredients like green tea extract, acai fruit extract and yerba mate extract.
