Antioxidants are often found in discussions about health and disease prevention. These powerful substances, mainly from the fresh fruits and vegetables we eat, prohibit (and in some cases even prevent) the oxidation of other molecules in the body. The benefits of antioxidants are very important for health, because if free radicals are not challenged, they can cause a variety of diseases and chronic diseases.

Antioxidants and free radicals


The body naturally produces free radicals and antioxidants to counteract its destructive effects. However, in most cases, the amount of free radicals far exceeds the naturally occurring antioxidants. In order to maintain balance, an external source of antioxidants needs to be continuously supplied to obtain the maximum benefit of the antioxidant. Antioxidants benefit the body by neutralizing and scavenging free radicals in the blood.


Different antioxidants benefit different parts of the body.


There are a variety of antioxidants in nature, and because of their diversity, different antioxidants provide benefits for different parts of the body. For example, beta-carotene (and other carotenoids) is very beneficial for eye health; lycopene helps maintain prostate health; flavonoids are especially good for heart health; proanthocyanidins are good for urinary tract health.



Antioxidants and skin health benefits


When the skin is exposed to high levels of UV light, photooxidative damage is caused by the formation of different types of reactive oxygen species, including unimodal oxygen, superoxide radicals and peroxide radicals. These forms of reactive oxygen species damage cellular lipids, proteins and DNA, which are believed to be the leading cause of erythema (sunburn), premature skin aging, photodermatosis and skin cancer.

Astaxanthin, followed by beta-carotene and vitamin E, has been shown to be the most powerful combination of antioxidants that help protect the skin from reactive oxygen species.


Antioxidant and immune system support


Monomodal oxygen can damage the immune system because it has the ability to catalyze the production of free radicals. Astaxanthin and spirulina have been shown to enhance non-specific and specific immune systems, protecting cell membranes and cellular DNA from mutations. Astaxanthin is the single strongest quencher of unimodal oxygen, 10 times stronger than other carotenoids (including beta-carotene) and 500 times stronger than alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E), while spirulina has more Antioxidants and other substances that help boost immunity.


Antioxidants help other ways of health


Increasing a person's antioxidant intake is critical to optimal health, especially in today's polluted world. Because the body can't keep up with the production of antioxidants, a lot of vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and enzymes must come from the daily diet. Increasing your antioxidant intake helps provide extra protection for your body and prevents:

• Heart problems


• Eye problems


• Memory problems


• mood disorder


•Immune system problems

Disclaimer:
The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, always seek advice from your doctor or qualified health care provider. Please consult a doctor before starting any exercise program. Never ignore or delay seeking medical advice because of what you have heard or read in this article or on the Internet.