A Guide To Natural Antioxidants

Antioxidant is a molecule that can prevent or slow down the oxidation of other molecules in the body. Oxidation refers to the chemical reaction where electrons of a substance are transferred to the oxidizing agent. Oxidation produces free radicals that start the chain reaction, damaging cells. Antioxidants stop this chain reaction by removing the free radical intermediates, and also inhibiting other reaction by being oxidized themselves. The process of oxidation can be compared to rusting, and it is very essential to keep the free radicals in control without eliminating them.

Basic Natural Antioxidants

There are five basic natural antioxidants: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Coenzyme Q 10, Lipoic acid and Gluthatione. All these work together to give the ultimate protection to the body. Natural antioxidants grab the free radicals, becoming the weak free radicals themselves, and are regenerated by other antioxidants.

Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant, and is essential for collagen production. Collagen is cellular glue, responsible for keeping the cells attached together and strengthening the connective tissues. Vitamin C also protects against lipid oxidation and cataract, and is essential for good immune system health.

Vitamin E is composed of four different tocotrienols and tocopherols, and is a natural antioxidant. It works with vitamin C and prevents the oxidation of lipids in the blood cells. It also gives protection against DNA damage and prevents the formation of cancer cells.

Coenzyme Q 10 is a fat-soluble natural antioxidant, and is used to treat and speed the recovery of heart patients. Lipoic acid is capable of recycling all the network antioxidants, and is critical for energy production. It control diabetes, prevents cataracts, boosts entire antioxidant defense network and also prevents complications of diabetes.

Gluthatione is a water-soluble natural antioxidant and rejuvenates immune system, recycles oxidized form of vitamin C, detoxifies blood, has anti-aging properties and protects the lining of the lungs.

Tomato extract contains carotenoids such as beta carotene, lycopene and vitamins that are effective natural antioxidants. Fruits and vegetables are natural sources of antioxidants and provide defense against the free radical molecules. Minerals such as selenium and zinc are also potent natural antioxidants. Strawberries, red wine, green tea, Brussels sprouts, red grapes, plums, butternut squash and cantaloupe are good sources of beta-carotene and vitamin C and E nutrients.
Doctors prescribe that maximum antioxidants must be taken from the diet rather than from supplements. Maintaining a healthy eating pattern consisting 5-6 servings of fruits and vegetables everyday can supply the required daily dose of essential antioxidants. Lutein, vitamin A, lycopene, and alpha and beta carotene are found in whole bovine milk.