The pro-health properties of antioxidants have been a very popular topic since the beginning of the 20th century, when antioxidants have been found to delay or eliminate the effects of the negative effects of free radicals.
Free radicals “take” electrons from other molecules and thus contribute to the damage or death of the cells with which the body is built.
Antioxidants provide electrons needed by free radicals and thus protect cells and inhibit chain reactions that are harmful to health. The oxidation process is harmful for all living cells. Oxidative stress is an important factor contributing to the development of many diseases that may occur due to poor diet, lack of physical activity, air pollution and other modern threats.
Antioxidants in food
A properly balanced diet can provide all the nutrients needed for health. The most valuable antioxidants are those that we eat with food. A long-term diet rich in antioxidants is a very important condition for health. Studies have shown that regular consumption of fruit and vegetables reduces the risk of chronic diseases. The most valuable, natural sources of antioxidants are: citrus fruits, blueberries, strawberries, grapes, plums, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, alfalfa sprouts.
Dietary supplements
If you lived unhealthy for many years, then eliminating the deficits of nutrients with natural remedies will last just as long. In this situation, dietary supplements come in handy, which in a short time can provide large doses of needed nutrients. The most popular antioxidants administered as dietary supplements are vitamins C and E. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant soluble in water, while vitamin E is fat-soluble. Both vitamins can come from natural sources and in a synthetic way. There is a view that naturally produced vitamins have a much higher percentage of bioavailability in the human body. Regular consumption of vitamin C and E contributes to lowering the risk of chronic diseases (eg cancer, cardiovascular disease, cataracts).
There are also more complex preparations (eg LAMININE), which in addition to antioxidants provide many other nutrients and have comprehensive healing properties.