Antioxidants: Your Body’s Protective Army
Posted on 12.13.09 by Libby
by: Mary Velan
All day our bodies are under attack by unstable molecules called free radicals. Free radicals are harmful, reactive compounds created in the body. They are a byproduct of our metabolic processes, as well as a result from exposure to sunshine and various environmental pollutants. Free radicals damage healthy tissue in our bodies that can lead to muscular degeneration and, basically, all forms of aging. Free radicals also assist in the blocking of arteries, as well as the onset of some cancers.
The only direct countering to a free radical attack is stimulation to the immune system provided by antioxidants. Antioxidants are molecules that basically disrupt the destructive path of free radicals by making them stable again, and thus less harmful to the body. They help slow down the aging process in skin as well as throughout the body. You could wait for time and free radicals to wrinkle your face and weaken your eyes, or you could start guarding yourself now with the help of antioxidants.
Antioxidants are created naturally in the body; however, it is important to refuel the supply through a proper diet. Many minerals contain high antioxidant properties and can be consumed directly in supplemental form such as; magnesium, zinc, selenium, B vitamins, etc. The strongest antioxidants, however, are often the most potent when they work together such as Vitamin E and C. They supercharge each other, thus protecting the body for a longer period of time. Because combinations of antioxidants can be so powerful, it is recommend that we eat a variety of antioxidant rich foods.
The top ten antioxidant rich foods are:
1.) berries (especially the acai berries, cherries, and blueberries)
2.) broccoli
3.) tomatoes
4.) grapes
5.) garlic
6.) spinach
7.) green tea
8.) carrots
9.) soy based products
10.) whole grains
These foods are not only very high in antioxidant properties, but they are easily accessible at grocery stores and restaurants. AND dark chocolate is high in antioxidants as well, as it aids in blocking the free radicals that help block artery walls with bad cholesterol. So a chocolate bar every now and then can be healthy!
