Antioxidants and Free Radicals 

In the polluted world that we live in today and the diminishing layer of ozone that protects us from dangerous radiations from our sun we are ever more exposed to elements that produce oxidation in our body leading to the production of dangerous chemical compounds called free radicals. Free radicals can lead to cellular damage, which is the common pathway for cancer, aging, and a variety of diseases. Free radicals are highly reactive and cause a major threat of reacting with DNA or cell membranes in chain reactions leading to the death or mutation of our cells.

Antioxidants are molecules that can help to destroy the free radicals so that the body can be free of the dangers associated with the free radicals. The way antioxidants work is that they can react with the free radicals and shut down the chain reaction saving the cells. The main micronutrient (vitamin) antioxidants are:

1. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and helps protect cells from damage. It is also important for the health of red blood cells. Vitamin E is found in many foods, such as vegetable oils, nuts, and leafy green vegetables. Avocados, wheat germ, and whole grains are also good sources. 

2. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A (retinol) and is present in liver, egg yolk, milk, butter, spinach, carrots, tomato, and grains. 

3. Vitamin C is needed to form collagen, a tissue that helps to hold cells together. It's essential for healthy bones, teeth, gums, and blood vessels. It helps the body absorb iron and calcium, aids in wound healing, and contributes to brain function. You'll find high levels of vitamin C in red berries, kiwifruit, red and green bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, and juices made from guava, grapefruit, and orange.

4. Selenium, which is a trace element and is also an important antioxidant.

One of the most popular antioxidants known to us is green Tea. Whenever given the choice you should always go for a green tea. Scientific documentation has shown that the majority of the therapeutic benefits of green tea are due to the polyphenols. Steeping a tea bag in hot water is a very inefficient means of extracting these polyphenols.  For best results you should drink 5 to 7 servings of green tea each day. Now this might be difficult to achieve for those who are on the move during the day. In case you are not able to get your regular green tea servings each day you should try a green tea concentrate an antioxidant.

Lately I have tried out a new product called HerbaGreen . Each bottle equals 60 servings and you simply add a dropper full to hot, warm, or cold water and then stir for a naturally delicious, wonderfully healthy drink! Now the best part is that one serving of this concentrate is as effective as 15 cups of hard brewed green tea from bags. Beside it’s purpose as an antioxidant, it is very good for digestion. I always carry a bottle with me as it is very convenient. For more information regarding this product please go to the following link. HerbaGreen.