What antioxidants are and how it can help you

Antioxidants are vitamins, minerals and nutrients found in foods. And are the most common plant foods with bright colors and distinct, such as islands, cherry red, Orange and purple berries. Antioxidants are the most common are vitamins a, c and beta carotene, selenium, lycopene.

Oxidation is a natural process that occurs within the cells in the body and can produce reactive substances called free radicals. Free radicals can damage cells in the body. Antioxidants and free radicals can be installed before it can damage cells in the body. Oxidation is a natural process, so a diet rich in antioxidants necessary for optimal health.

The body has many free radicals known as the particles that

are produced when the body breaks down food or smoking, and antioxidants are substances that prevent our cells from damage caused by the free radicals. The antioxidants in various foods, including in your diet can protect you from many diseases, and also slow down the aging process. Free radicals attack healthy cells of the body to the Staples themselves but in the process, lead to more free radicals.

But when there are antioxidants in the body, activate them before they can attack healthy cells. This is why the body needs important compound. It can be found in our foods such as fruits, vegetables, berries and nuts. And dark chocolate and green tea and coffee. Foods high in vitamin C and E for excellent antioxidant dose.

The body also produces antioxidant enzymes themselves. Can lead to the damage caused by free radicals in a weakened immune system, geriatrics and severe heart disease. So foods rich in antioxidants in your meals and protect your body from harmful effects of free radicals.

The body's defenses against oxidative stress, or damage caused by free radicals, become less effective with age. Research indicates that oxidative stress caused by free radicals responsible for many degenerative diseases associated with the aging process. Cancer and cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease just a few of these degenerative diseases. Moreover, chronic diseases and aging can cause an increase in the production of free radicals, worsening damage keep your cells due to oxidation.

Some antioxidants are most common, and foods that contain them,:

Vitamin A is found in carrots, squash, broccoli, sweet potatoes, tomato, turnip, cabbage, cantaloupes, peaches and apples.

Vitamin C is found in citrus fruit, green pepper, green leafy vegetables, strawberries and tomatoes.

Vitamin E, which is found in nuts, seeds, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, vegetable oil and cod liver oil.

Selenium, which is found in fish, shellfish, red meat, grains, eggs, chicken and garlic.

Some other common antioxidant:

Flavoniods and polyphenols, which are found in soy, grape purple, red, pomegranate, cranberry and tea.

Lycopene, found in tomatoes, pink grapefruit, and watermelons.

Lenin, which is found in flaxseed, barley, oats and rye.

Eat plenty of antioxidants is one of the best ways to prevent oxidation caused by free radicals. Five daily servings of fruits and vegetables are recommended to reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as stroke, cancer and cardiovascular disease by up to 25%. Easily add more fruits and vegetables to your diet. Try a fruit salad for dessert or take vegetables cut up work for a snack. Include vegetables with your main meals. Avoid juices made from concentrate, is best if possible to make your own juices at home.