Antioxidants

On a daily basis we are exposed to conditions that breed free radicals. Conditions such as, smog and air pollution, chemicals in water, tobacco, and foods that are high in fat and sugar.

Free radicals are also formed from inside the body. When molecules have an odd number of electrons they become very unstable. As a result of missing an electron the free radical will then ‘steal’ an electron from the nearest molecule. When this molecule losses its electron it also becomes a free radical. The result is a chain reaction within the body and after a while damage is caused to cells and the body. The only way to combat free radicals is with antioxidants.

Antioxidants are substances or nutrients in our foods which can prevent or slow damage done to our bodies by free radicals. When present inside our bodies antioxidants act like free radical scavengers. When antioxidants come upon a free radical it gives an electron to the free radical making it stable again and no longer harmful to the body. However antioxidants do not become free radicals by losing electrons. Antioxidants can also help repair damage that has already been sustained. It is believed that antioxidants aid in the prevention of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Rheumatoid arthritis and cataracts

Ensuring that you have the proper amount of antioxidants within your body to combat free radicals is easy. All you have to do is eat the right foods.  Foods that contain Vitamin A, Carotenoids, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Selenium are good sources of antioxidants. See the following list of foods that contain these vitamins and nutrients.

 Vitamin A and Carotenoids

Carrots, squash, broccoli, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, kale, collards, cantaloupe, peaches, and apricots

Vitamin C

Citrus fruits like oranges and lime, etc, green peppers, broccoli, green leafy vegetables, strawberries and tomatoes

Vitamin E

Nuts and seeds, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, vegetable oil and liver oil

Selenium

Fish and shellfish, red meat, grains, eggs, chicken and garlic

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