Antioxidants are substances found in food that prevent and slow oxidative damage from dangerous free-radicals. Free-radicals are by-products of our cells use of Oxygen, and can cause damage to our bodies.
Antioxidants are also known as free-radical scavengers, preventing and repairing oxidative damage.
The most commonly known antioxidants are:
- Vitamin A and Carotenoids - found in carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, broccoli, and other bright colored vegetables.
- Vitamin C - found in citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, green peppers, broccoli, and tomatoes.
- Vitamin E - found in green leafy vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
- Selenium - found in red meat, grains, eggs, chicken, and garlic.
Supplementing your diet with antioxidants is extremely vital. Certain complications have been shown to be associated with oxidative damage, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and macular degeneration. |