Antioxidant Facts and Antioxidant Health Benefits
Many years ago, it was determined that the oxidation process was damaging to many metals, and agents were developed to help halt this process. Continuing research of the human body has shown that a similar action occurs in all living animals and the process can be damaging to cells, organs, and tissue.
Remove Free Radicals
The use of antioxidants has shown to remove the free radicals that steal electrons from other atoms in the body; causing the degeneration of the affected organ. Another way to look at the importance of antioxidants is to view it as a rust inhibitor. With bare metal, two things are required for the oxidation process to begin; oxygen and water.
Photo courtesy of Microsoft Clipart
Anyone who has ever left unprotected metal outside has seen the effects of the oxidation process in the form of rust. The grill cover that protects it from the rain or an extra coat of protective paint on metals are the antioxidants the metals need to protect the metal from the effects of the weather.
Antioxidants in the Body
In the body, the antioxidants help control the bits of rust. More accurately, the free radicals break off from the chemical reactions that naturally occur in the body. These loose compounds are called free radicals because they float around in the system drawing electrons from other cells, damaging them as a result. Antioxidants are charged with the task of scouring the body and gathering up all the free radicals before they can cause harm to other cells.
Needs Outside Help
One of the known antioxidant facts is that, this complex process may require some outside help. While the body produces many of its own antioxidants, there is a growing understanding that the body might require some outside help in rounding up all the free radicals loose in the system. Taking antioxidant supplements and eating foods high in antioxidants lend a hand to the natural process and in many instances are necessary part of a healthy body.
Dark-colored fruits and vegetables have powerful antioxidant properties. Tomatoes are a natural source of antioxidant 'lycopene' that may help prevent heart disease. Eggplant, which contains high chlorogenic acid, was recently found to be a very effective antioxidant. Sprouted grains are good sources of antioxidants. Acai berry juice is also thought of as one of the best antioxidants available.
Benefit from Antioxidants in Small Doses
Supplementing with high intake of antioxidants may help the body against diseases and cancer. For health benefits, it is better to consume smaller doses of a wide variety of different antioxidants than taking a large amount of one antioxidant.
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