Recent research has shown that there is very little benefit from taking diet supplements to obtain antioxidants. A better way, according to a report in the September issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter, is by eating a diet rich in antioxidant foods. Antioxidants such as:
vitamins C and E
carotene
lycopene
lutein
There many more compounds that play a role in fighting diseases such as cardiovascular problems, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and macular degeneration. The benefits of antioxidants come from the fact that they are thought to neutralize free radicals, that are a byproduct of the natural cells metabolism.
Antioxidant production in the human body is extremely inefficient and declines with the progression of age.
People who regularly eat foods rich in antioxidants reap many health benefits according to studies. It is best to receive antioxidants through food rather than dietary supplements because foods contain an unequivocal array of antioxidants.
Supplements are limited because they only offer a few of the many types of antioxidants that are found. This is a problem since Doctors do not know which antioxidants are responsible for the health benefits. Some of the better known antioxidants are:
Berry Family: Acai Berry, raspberries, strawberries, cranberries, blueberries
Bean Family: Tiny red beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, black beans
Fruit Family: Apples, avocados, cherries, pears ( all types)
Vegetables: Artichokes, spinach, red cabbage, red and white potatoes (with peels), sweet potatoes and broccoli
Drinks: green tea, coffee, red wine, acai berry juice
Nuts: Walnuts, pistachios, pecans, hazelnuts and almonds
Herbal family: Ground cloves, cinnamon or ginger, dried oregano leaf and turmeric powder
Grains: Oat-based products
Dessert: Dark chocolate
Taking too many antioxidants through supplements such as vitamin c can cause more damage than good according to a recent study.
Many foods higher in antioxidants offer many more health benefits, such as being high in fiber, protein and other vitamins and minerals and low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
Currently, the government give no guidelines on which antioxidants to consume as well as how many to take as part of their daily diet.
It is encouraged for the time being to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables that have a high concentration of amino acids like cranberries.
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