Remember this phrase? "Eat your vegetables or no dessert!" Or this. "Eat your carrots, they're good for your eyes!" Or. "An apple a day keeps the doctor away!" Your grandmother sure knew what she was talking about!
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals as the natural by-product of normal cell processes.
Free radicals are molecules with incomplete electron shells which make them more chemically reactive than those with complete electron shells. Exposure to various environmental factors, including tobacco smoke and radiation, can also lead to free radical formation.
In humans, the most common form of free radicals is oxygen. When an oxygen molecule (O2) becomes electrically charged or "radicalized" it tries to steal electrons from other molecules, causing damage to the DNA and other molecules. Over time, such damage may become irreversible and lead to disease including cancer. Antioxidants are often described as "mopping up" free radicals, meaning they neutralize the electrical charge and prevent the free radicals from taking electrons from other molecules.
Free radicals and oxidation
When you cut an apple, the cut edges turn brown. That is because exposure to air is causing it to “rust”. That is oxidation.
Oxygen molecules in our body lose an electron while interacting with other molecules. This is another form of oxidation. Now these unstable injured oxygen molecules (free radicals) are going to “heal” themselves. They run all over stealing electrons from any healthy molecule they can find. Of course, this damages the healthy molecules.
Research is finding that free radical damage is responsible for all kinds of illness and disease.
Hardening of the arteries
Macular degeneration
Certain cancers
And they age you!
Free radicals occur naturally. They are not invaders like viruses or bacteria.
Normally, your body cells turn oxygen into water. Free radicals are the approximately 1% that get away.
OK, now. Here come the guys in the white hat! Antioxidants. Vitamins A, E, C, lycopene and beta-carotene. Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by the unstable molecules known as free radicals.
Load up your diet with fruits and vegetables . Some of the best food sources for antioxidant compounds include -
Vitamin C: citrus fruits, broccoli, green and sweet red peppers, dark green leafy vegetables
Beta-carotene: carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach
Vitamin E: Wheat germ
If you buy Vita-Female™ or Vita-Male™, an all natural organic dietary supplement, you will find an array of antioxidants. And just watch your energy soar! Formulated by doctors with the whole person in mind. If you don't feel more energized – there is a full 90 day money back guarantee. Here's to a healthier you!
MicroNutra Health™ provides progressive health products derived from the finest all-natural ingredients Mother Earth has to offer. MicroNutra Health™ understands that by nurturing your ability to regenerate and replenish healthy new cells, that you will sustain a natural healthy life, and augment unprecedented vitality at every age.
Health Disclaimer! The information provided on this site should not be construed as personal medical advice or instruction. No action should be taken based solely on the contents of this site. Readers should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to their health and well-being. The information and opinions provided here are believed to be accurate and sound, based on the best judgment available to the authors, but readers who fail to consult appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries. The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.
