What
Are Antioxidants And How Can They Help You?
Found naturally in most fruits
and vegetables, antioxidants are natural compounds that are needed
by the body to help repair damaged cells and fight against illness. Antioxidants include vitamins, such as Vitamins C and
D, some minerals like selenium, and compounds in fruits and vegetables,
which are called flavonoids.
The main purpose of antioxidants is to repair and protect your body
from harmful cells called “free radicals.” These tainted
cells are natural by-products of the oxygen cells use during normal
function, and can harm neighboring cells during a process called
oxidation. Oxidation is the same chemical process that causes rusting
in metal and what turns dairy products, like butter, sour. By incorporating
antioxidants into your diet, you can reduce your risk of many diseases
by reducing the number of free radicals. You can be exposed to free
radicals in many different ways, including:
- Natural processes that occur in your body,
including the breakdown of sugars in food
- The breakdown of different medicines and
chemicals
- Exposure to pollutants such as cigarette
smoke and excessive alcohol consumption
As with any supplement, it is important to consult your physician
before you combine supplements with each other or with other medications
you may be on.
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