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What are the Benefits of Antioxidants for Health and Wellness?
The human body requires a range of nutrients to function properly, and antioxidants are amongst the most essential of these. With their ability to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, antioxidants help to maintain good health, promote wellness, and protect against various diseases.
What are Antioxidants?
Antioxidants are vitamins, minerals, and other compounds found naturally in certain foods. They are known as free radical scavengers, meaning that they interact with free radicals and stop them from damaging cells. Free radicals are molecules that can cause oxidative stress and cell damage, which contributes to aging and a wide range of diseases. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants help to reduce cell damage and safeguard against a variety of diseases.
Sources of Antioxidants and Their Health Benefits
The best sources of antioxidants are fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. You can also get antioxidants from dark chocolate, lentils, beans, tea, and red wine. Research has linked high intakes of antioxidants to a range of health benefits, including:
Reduced Risk of Disease
Studies show that high intakes of Vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, and carotenoids can reduce the risk of various illnesses, including heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
Protection Against Neurodegenerative Diseases
Antioxidants, particularly Vitamin C and E, may help to protect against age-related mental decline, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease.
Improved Eye Health
Research shows that antioxidants like lutein, zeaxanthin, and Vitamin C help to protect eyes from cataracts, AMD, and other conditions.
Strengthened Immunity
Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties. Studies suggest that a high intake of vitamin C can protect against sore throats, cold, and other illnesses that reduce the immunity.
Better Skin Health
Antioxidants also help to protect skin cells from damage and protect against premature aging and wrinkles. Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and carotenoids are some of the best antioxidants for skin health.
Key Takeaways
Antioxidants are essential nutrients that protect cells from damage, promoting health and wellness. They are found in certain fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains, and are linked to a range of health benefits. Vitamins such as Vitamin C and E, as well as carotenoids, selenium, and lutein, may help to reduce the risk of disease, protect against neurodegenerative diseases, improve eye health, boost immunity, and strengthen skin health.
