The Benefits of Antioxidants for Human Health
Antioxidants are compounds that play a crucial role in maintaining human health by neutralizing harmful molecules known as free radicals. These free radicals are unstable atoms that can damage cells, leading to various health issues, including accelerated aging, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Your body naturally produces some antioxidants, but it also relies on external sources, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to meet its needs. Adding a well formulated multi-antioxidant supplement such as my Cell eXtra adds another layer of protection. Read more below.
Protection Against Chronic Diseases
One of the most significant benefits of antioxidants is their ability to protect against chronic diseases. Research has shown that antioxidants like OPC from grape seeds, green tea, berry extracts, vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, zinc, copper and manganese can reduce the risk of heart disease by preventing oxidative stress, a condition where free radicals overwhelm the body’s natural antioxidants. This protection is vital as oxidative stress is a major contributor to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the hardening and narrowing of the arteries.
Immune System Support
Antioxidants also play a crucial role in bolstering the immune system. By neutralising free radicals, antioxidants help maintain the integrity of cells and tissues, allowing the immune system to function more effectively. For instance, vitamin C, especially when combined with OPC and bioflavonoids, is known for its immune-boosting properties, helping to ward off infections and illnesses.
Anti-Aging Benefits
The anti-aging benefits of antioxidants are widely recognized. Free radicals contribute significantly to the aging process by damaging skin cells, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. Antioxidants such as beta-carotene, OPC, vitamins C and E help protect the skin from these effects by reducing oxidative stress and promoting cell repair and regeneration. This leads to healthier, more youthful-looking skin.
Cancer Prevention
Some studies suggest that antioxidants may also play a role in cancer prevention. By combating oxidative damage to DNA, antioxidants can prevent mutations that may lead to cancerous growths. Although more research is needed to fully understand this relationship, the potential of antioxidants in reducing cancer risk is promising. The most potent antioxidants to protect DNA are proanthocyanidins such as grape seed OPC.
Antioxidant supplements
A good multi-antioxidant should target the major antioxidant groups. To do this it should firstly be a complete multi mineral as several antioxidants are made from trace minerals. See the last edition for details. Cell eXtra is really three supplements in one. It is a multi-mineral, multi-vitamin and importantly a multi-antioxidant. The combine effect is a powerful free radical scavenger that directly supports our disease-fighting processes.
Conclusion
Antioxidants are vital to maintaining human health. Their ability to protect against chronic diseases, support the immune system, provide anti-aging benefits, and potentially prevent cancer makes them essential components of a healthy diet. Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods into daily meals is a simple yet effective way to harness these health benefits and promote overall well-being. Better, add a comprehensive multi-antioxidant supplement.
As always, feel free to contact me for personalised advice.
John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med)
Abundant Health
john@abundant.co.nz
0800 423559
Int’l +64 7 5722343
John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his all new newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz.
