You’ve probably heard of antioxidants, and you know you are supposed to be incorporating those superfoods into your diet, but what are they? Antioxidants, as their name suggests, inhibit oxidation, which is basically a process of deterioration, responsible for turning iron to rust and turning apples brown. In our bodies, oxidation can cause damage to important molecules in our cells such as DNA and proteins necessary for proper cell function. Fortunately, our bodies know how to use food rich in antioxidants to help prevent this deterioration. Here are 7 ways antioxidants help your health.
1. Reduce Inflammation
Our bodies produce inflammatory
cells when we are ill or injured to fight bacteria and infection. Sometimes
chronic illnesses, such as asthma or cancer, as well as lifestyle factors such
as excessive stress can contribute to inflammation. Vitamins A, D, and C as
well as curcumin (found in turmeric) are often prescribed to help reduce
systemic inflammation.
2. Help Improve your Gut Biome
Beneficial bacteria are
necessary to the health of our digestive systems. Studies have found that
antioxidants reduce oxidative stress in the gut by regulating beneficial gut
bacteria. Eating fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants is one easy way to
promote your own gut health.
3. Contribute to Improved Mental Health
Though
antioxidants alone are not a cure-all for mental health issues, they have been
shown to have a benefit in some patients. Oxidative stress has been linked to
anxiety and depression. Reducing oxidative stress by eating a healthy diet can
be one leg of an effective mental health treatment plan.
4. Aid Brain Function
Our brains have naturally high
metabolic activity, so they use a lot of oxygen, which makes them prone to
oxidative stress. Antioxidants have the potential to help delay cognitive decline
such as memory loss.
5. Help Prevent Disease
Antioxidants support normal
cellular function and antioxidants have been linked to reduced chances of
contracting cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and metabolic
disorders. Vitamin A and beta carotene have been linked to reduced cancer risk
and Vitamins C and E have proven effective against cardiovascular disease.
6. Maintain Eye Health
We have all heard that carrots are
good for our eyes, but it turns out that the reason for that is the
antioxidants beta carotene and Vitamin E. Studies are showing that a diet rich in
antioxidants can help slow the development of cataracts and macular
degeneration.
7. Repair and Maintain Healthy Skin
So many skincare
products contain Vitamin C these days because studies are showing that the
antioxidant can reduce puffiness and inflammation in the skin, repair
discoloration, and aid in the production of collagen, all of which makes skin look
healthier and more youthful. The most effective way to deliver Vitamin C to the
skin is topically, so those Vitamin C serums really can be beneficial.
We’ve always known that eating fruits and vegetables is
part of a healthy diet and now we know why. Eating antioxidant-rich foods is
more effective than taking supplements for delivering antioxidants to your
cells. Superberries Aronia Berry Products contain the highest amount of
antioxidants compared to other fruits. They are delicious and versatile, so you
can add them to almost any meal. Your whole body will thank you when you do.
