Antioxidants Information

Antioxidants are the agent that inhibits oxidation and decomposition of oil or fats and other material through oxidative processes. Antioxidants help in oxidation, increase immune function and decrease the risk of cancer and infection. Antioxidants are present in food as Vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients. Antioxidants can be increased by increasing food consumption.

Some of the well known antioxidants are carotenoids which give deep rich color to fruits and vegetables, Apricots, Spinach, broccoli, pumpkin are rich in antioxidants. Vitamin C & D as well as magnesium, copper and zinc are good example of antioxidants.

Oxidative stress occurs due to excessive production of harmful molecules known as free Radicals. Free radicals are chemically active molecules formed due to excess or deficient production of electrons. Some of the examples of free radical are super oxide anion, hydroxyl anion and some transition elements such as copper, nitric acid, ozone. Free radical containing oxygen is termed as reactive oxygen species (ROS) are most biologically significant free radicals.

These free radicals cannot be avoided, it may be present inside (Endogenous) or outside (Exogenous) of the body. Endogenous oxidants are produced due to normal functioning of our body like aerobic respiration, body metabolism, and inflammation. Exogenous oxidants take birth due to environmental factors such as pollution, smoking, alcohol, x-rays etc.

Free radicals are highly unstable pair of electron which enters our body to gain one or two electron or to donate the pair of electron. These free radicals in their stabilizing process damage our body cells, protein and DNA. The same oxidative are the reason behind rancidity of oils, turns apple brown or causes iron to rust. Free radicals are also responsible for many of the aging problems.

Antioxidants may be fruitful for many elderly people, who have reduced proper food intake, smokers, and people with unpaired immune system if they take antioxidant supplements in their daily diet. Antioxidants help in controlling heart diseases and cholesterol. It is important to note that these vitamins and mineral supplement cannot be supplemented with our daily diet.

Free radicals are present in abundance in our environment in form of air pollution, processed food, and cigarette smoke etc. millions of free radicals are synthesized in our body when we exercise. This is the main source of muscle soreness and weakness that are faced after exercise. The damaging effect caused due to environmental factors or exercise can be reduced due to comprehensive antioxidant formula containing vitamin A, C & E, selenium and beta-carotenes.

These free radicals are responsible for more than 60 diseases including Arthritis, Allergies, cold finger, cataract, heart diseases, kidney and liver disorder, ulcer etc. Oxidation is very important for the break down of waste material, dead plant and dead animals. Antioxidants are very important for the process of regeneration.

Reducing salt and fat intake, smoking, regular and exercise and eating food rich in antioxidants may be able to reduce disorder caused due to free radicals. Especially smokers and those who do not take proper balanced diet are strictly recommended to take antioxidant supplement.

Sources of Antioxidants

Brewed coffee contains element rich in antioxidants, each chemical has a tiny amount but together a cup of coffee may add up the same amount of antioxidant as that in three oranges. Selenium is very important to fight against free radicals causing premature aging and other effects. Vegetables and fruits with deep color are highly rich in antioxidants.