The body of every human naturally produces free radicals. Sometimes these radicals contribute to health problems such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. When these health problems run in the family or when a person simply wishes to naturally enhance his or her immune system, antioxidants are a good way to start. They fight the natural radicals and help to protect against pollutants in the environment.
Vitamin C is a common antioxidant that is fairly easy to maintain in the diet. Foods such as bell peppers, tomatoes, citrus fruits, and green, leafy vegetables are high in vitamin C. According to vitaminstuff.com, vitamin C is great in fighting the aging of skin, muscles, and other body tissues. It is good for anemia, because it absorbs iron. In addition, it helps against heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Salads with fresh green vegetables are a great way to maintain a high vitamin C diet, and of course, an apple a day keeps the doctor away!
Caretonoids, which are a pigment found in vegetables, are another easily accessible, cancer-fighting type of antioxidant. Perhaps the most well-known is beta-carotene, which enhances the effects of vitamin A. Carotene can be found in tomatoes, carrots, citrus fruits, spinach, Brussels sprouts, and apricots.
Vitamin E is very good, especially for people who have heart problems, a family history of blocked arteries, or who are at risk for strokes. Not only does it thin the blood, but it also fights cholesterol that starts to block the arteries. According to Dr. George Obikoy in his article “Vitamin E: a powerful antioxidant,” vitamin E may be effective in preventing and fighting Alzheimer ’s disease. It helps sight, may prevent hormonal problems such as breast cancer, and aids in the absorption of fats necessary in the diet. So, eat your almonds and cashews, put some olive oil in your salad, and cook with vegetable oil!
The antioxidant seleno-protein is another cancer and free radical fighting agent. Like most things, selenium should be taken in moderation, and consuming too much can have adverse side effects such as upset stomach and hair loss, so it is important not to consume more than the recommended daily amount. For the typical adult male or female, that value is 55 micrograms a day, according to the National Institute of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements. Other than fighting cancer and heart disease, they are very good for thyroid and immune system health and fighting the production of tumors. Seleno-protein enriched foods include tuna, Brazil nuts, turkey, beef, chicken, cod, eggs, rice, and walnuts.
There are plenty of other antioxidants to nibble. For example, there are scientific studies that agree that regular intake of green tea helps to lower risks of heart disease and cancer. Açaí is a pretty big and fairly expensive antioxidant craze at the moment, although there are many sceptics who think other fruits such as cranberries and blueberries have stronger antioxidant content. The important thing is to differentiate your diet to get a decent amount of antioxidants, proteins, fats, and sugars in order to get a good nutritional intake. Consuming only high-antioxidant food can be harmful, so it pays to be a smart eater by diversifying your diet.
