and Health
Contents
What Are Antioxidants?
Antioxidants are naturally occurring compounds found in plants, animals, microbes and fungi. The primary role of antioxidants is to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules which can damage cell membranes and interfere with normal cellular activity. Oxidative stress, which is caused by an accumulation of free radical damage, has been implicated in the development of many chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
How Do Antioxidants Help Prevent Cancer?
When free radicals are allowed to accumulate, they can damage DNA and other cellular components which can lead to cancerous growth. Antioxidants act as a defense against this damage by neutralizing the free radicals, therefore helping to reduce the risk of developing cancer. In addition, antioxidants can also promote healthy cell growth and slow the growth of existing cancer cells.
What Foods Are High in Antioxidants?
The best dietary sources of antioxidants are fruits and vegetables, particularly those that are brightly coloured such as blueberries, raspberries, spinach, kale, red peppers and tomatoes. Other good sources of antioxidants include nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains and fermented foods like miso and tempeh. Tea, coffee, chocolate and red wine also contain high levels of antioxidants. It’s important to note that processed or refined foods, such as white flour and sugar, contain very few antioxidants.
How Much Antioxidants Should I Have Each Day?
The general recommendation is to consume a variety of fruits, vegetables and other antioxidant-rich foods every day. Aim to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables and try to get a good mix of different colours. For example, one serving can be 1/2 cup of cooked vegetables, 1 cup of salad, 1/2 cup of cooked beans or 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen fruits.
What Are the Benefits of Antioxidants for Health?
In addition to helping prevent cancer, antioxidants have many other health benefits. They can boost your immune system, protect your body from harm from toxins and bacteria, and help improve your overall health. Antioxidants can also help your body recover from physical and emotional stress, regulate blood sugar levels, and protect your organs from damage.
Are Antioxidant Supplements Safe?
Although antioxidants are beneficial for health, it is generally recommended to get your antioxidants from natural food sources. Taking antioxidants in the form of a supplement may not be as beneficial as eating foods that are high in antioxidants. Supplements can also interact negatively with certain medications, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any kind of antioxidant supplements.
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