What are
antioxidants?
Antioxidants
are compounds that neutralise free radicals.
A
Free Radical is a molecule that has lost a part of its structure and is
therefore unbalanced. This is a process called oxidation (exactly like rust on
iron). And therefore looks for some oxygen to balance it.
Free
Radicals are an essential component of the oxidation process which is
responsible for the production of Energy within the body. Most of the Free Radicals generated are balanced
by the body’s enzymes, vitamins & minerals.
Unfortunately,
the body's Energy production process is 2% - 5% inefficient and some Free
Radicals escape and can cause harm to the body.
It
is the excessive production of non-energy producing Free Radicals that
accelerates the ageing & disease process.
What do Free Radicals
do to the body?
An
excessive amount can cause damage to a cell’s protein, membrane, ability to
regenerate correctly. This leads to inflammation, damage to major organs and
digestive system. Not to mention visible ageing on the skin. They can
compromise the immune system, CVS and lymphatic system.
What are general
causes of free radical formation?
They
are formed just by natural body processes especially energy function. But it is
the excessive amounts we are concerned with and the following options are able
to produce many free radicals over constant use – smoking, long exposure to sun
or other UV light, excessive alcohol, caffeine drinks, processed food, bad fats
and continual emotional, physical and mental stress.
So what can be done
to neutralise this reaction?
The
major anti oxidants common to us are – Vit C, E, A, Zinc, Selenium,
Bioflavinoids (Rutin and Hesperidin) and CoQ10.
The
foods that are rich in these anti oxidants are coloured –red, orange, yellow
& green. The list includes – tomatoes, carrots, citrus fruits, red grapes
and cabbage. Green leafy veges (spinach, endive, chickory), nuts, onions, and
sprouts and protein in the form of fish, chicken and meat.
We tend to give
our bodies a real battering. Gradually over years we can pay the price of
dis-ease and compromised lifestyle. So today is the day to look at the food you
eat, the amount of daily rest, how much exercise you have, the stressors in
your life – and ensure a balance is achieved on a daily basis.
What
supplements to take and what foods are best – ask our Naturopaths or Natural
Health Consultants.
Fill out our "Nutricheck" online at: calannapharmacy.com.au which will give you a great indication of where your health is at!
Mario Calanna
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