Anti-oxidants are essential for vibrant health, as they work to protect us from damaging free radicals. Free radicals are atoms which are unstable and scavenge
the body. They are created by exposure to pollution, smoking, radiation, and are a natural by-product of our metabolism, resulting in damage and consequently contribute to premature-ageing in the body. Anti-oxidants act to neutralise any free radicals which are present, and help to prevent the premature ageing which can result. By making an effort to consume as many anti-oxidants as possible through your diet and supplements, you can reap the benefits.
The following nutrients act as anti-oxidants:
Vitamin A acts as an anti-oxidant, and is required for the health of the epithelial tissue of the skin and mucous membranes. Eye health also benefits from Vitamin A supplementation.
Vitamin C is used for a multitude of functions in the body, including the immune system, helping to reduce damaging free-radicals.
Vitamin E acts as an anti-oxidant by preventing the oxidation of fats in the arteries and promoting cardiovascular health.
Selenium is used for the health of the immune system, protects against free radicals, and helps to regulate the thyroid gland.
CoQ10 – as well as being beneficial for the cardiovascular system, CoQ10 acts as an anti-oxidant and helps to generate energy for the body
Alpha Lipoic Acid – a very strong anti-oxidant which helps to recycle Vitamin C and Vitamin E so they can continue to be used by the body. Alpha Lipoic Acid is soluble in water and fat and therefore can move everywhere in the body. Alpha lipoic acid assists with blood sugar balance, and detoxifies heavy metals from the body.
SOD (Superoxide Dismutase) - a powerful enzyme which neutralises free radicals.
NAC (N-Acetylcysteine) – produces glutathione which is a powerful free radical fighter. NAC also helps the liver to detoxify harmful substances
Green tea contains an abundant source of anti-oxidants. Regular consumption
of green tea has been associated with a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease.
Turmeric is a herb with anti-oxidant and potent anti-inflammatory effects, and compounds which encourage liver detoxification.
Bilberry contains compounds known as proanthocyanins, acting as an anti-oxidant with benefits for eye and capillary health.
Ginkgo biloba is classically known as a circulatory stimulant, improving memory and concentration and also acting as an anti-oxidant in the body.
Grapeseed extract fights free radicals. It is a source of proanthocyanidins which help to strengthen capillaries and veins, maintain collagen levels, prevent atherosclerosis, and help treat high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.
Pine bark extract is also a source of proanthocyanidins (OPC’s), helping to strengthen capillaries and veins, maintain collagen levels, prevent atherosclerosis, and help treat high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.
Beta carotene is a carotenoid which contains Vitamin A, helping to enhance the immune system and support eye health.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenoids which help to maintain eye health, particularly in the lens and macula regions of the eye.
Lycopene is a carotenoid which has a red pigment. Lycopene is associated with protecting the health of the prostate, and fighting free radicals.
Quercetin is an anti-oxidant which is commonly used as a natural anti-histamine, helping to relieve the symptoms of hayfever.
Resveratrol is found in the skin of red grapes and is used for prevention of heart disease, and anti-ageing benefits.
Acai berry is a South American berry which is packed full of anti-oxidants, boosting immunity, cardiovascular health, and helps to slow the ageing process.