-
Step 1
Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms that can cause damage to cells. This damage can result in an impaired immune system which can lead to infections and various degenerative diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
-
Step 2
Free radicals however are not all bad. In small numbers they are actually needed to aid in some bodily functions. It’s when there is an excess that damage to the body can occur. Many different factors can lead to excess free radical such as poor diet, stress, and cigarette smoke and household chemicals. In our normal everyday life, we are exposed to elements that can cause an increase of free radicals even if we are very health conscious.
-
Step 3
What can we do to keep things in check? Adding foods to our diet high in antioxidants such as fruits, vegetables, whole grain cereals, legumes, nuts and seeds is the best way to help our bodies do its job. Foods particularly high in antioxidants include fruits and vegetables that are rich in color such as berries, dark leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, carrots and red bell peppers. Sometimes these are referred to as the superfoods.
-
Step 4
If your diet is lacking in these foods there are several ways to supplement. Certain herbs such as garlic, ginkgo, burdock and bilberry have natural antioxidants properties. The antioxidant vitamins are A, C and E. Additional supplements to consider include CoQ10, selenium, grape seed extract and zinc.
Comments
chrissyjohnson said
on 4/19/2009 Great tips on How to Add Antioxidants to Your Diet! 5* rec
katecrittendon said
on 4/15/2009 Thanks for the good info on antioxidants.
stratus said
on 4/12/2009 Thank you for the excellent article.
gahazeleyes said
on 4/7/2009 Very good article. Loved it. As a matter of fact, I'm trying to add more antioxidants to my food by choosing better fruits and veggies this year.
xopinkdiamondz said
on 4/6/2009 Amazing article!! Me and my boyfriend also try to eat only all natural, organic foods as much as we can! Thanks for posting this. It's great to see someone who is also into natural foods! 5* and recommendatioN! Hope to talk to you soon