Nutrition and Health

A few of the better known antioxidants include carotenoids-- the substance that gives fruits and vegetables their deep rich colors. Apricots, broccoli, pumpkin, cantaloupes, spinach and sweet potatoes, are some good choices, in addition to the lycopene in tomatoes. Vitamin C and E are also good antioxidants. Strawberries and blueberries are a good source of these vitamins.

What Is a Free Radical Anyway?

As cells function normally in the body, they produce damaged molecules called free radicals. These free radicals steal parts from other molecules such as fat, protein, or DNA, thereby spreading the damage.

This damage continues in a chain reaction, and entire cells soon become damaged and die. This process helps the body destroy cells that have outlived their purpose, and kills germs and parasites. This damage, however, when left unchecked, also effects healthy cells.

How Do Antioxidants Stop Free Radical Damage?

Antioxidants help prevent widespread cellular destruction by supplying components needed to stabilize free radicals. More importantly, antioxidants return to the surface of the cell to stabilize, rather than damage, other cellular components.

When there are not enough antioxidants to hold cell destruction in check, free radicals begin damaging healthy cells which, in turn, can lead to problems. For example, free radical damage to immune cells can lead to an increased risk of infections.

Your body needs to be able to repair damage that occurs and protect itself from the free radicals before they impact your health. This is where antioxidants come to the rescue, because they significantly delay, inhibit, or prevent oxidation.

The first line of defense is a natural diet focusing on optimum nutrition. Make sure your daily intake includes a full variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. For all those times when your diet isn't perfect, it always makes sense to include a dietary supplement rich in antioxidants in your daily routine.