Understanding Antioxidants and How They Affect Your Health

Over the years, antioxidants have become an important dietary component. Consumers are now highly conscious about what they eat, when they eat, and how they eat. In a quest to stay healthy and fit, many people are now increasingly consuming antioxidants— the protectors of our cells. They are vitamins, enzymes, and minerals that prevent the damaging process of oxidation in our body tissue. They facilitate immunity and keep us protected from over 60 diseases and illnesses. Production of antioxidants in human body reduces with age and thus, you must take necessary healthy food supplements to ensure a good quantity of antioxidants intake.

UNDERSTANDING ANTIOXIDANTS IN FOOD

ALL ABOUT COLOUR - In general, foods that contain antioxidants are full of vibrant colors. For instance, tomatoes contain high levels of lycopene antioxidant, which makes tomatoes red.

TO COOK OR NOT TO COOK - It is important to know how to eat antioxidant-rich foods or else you might end up losing their nutritional value. Wild blueberries are high in antioxidants but if you cook them in a pie, they lose their value. On the contrary, fresh raw tomatoes contain moderate antioxidants but when they are cooked, the value increases drastically.

ORGANIC VS. COMMERCIAL - Organic fruits and vegetables are the best sources of antioxidants. With the increased use of pesticides and fertilizers, there is a decline in the nutritional value of commercially farmed produce. If you don’t have access to natural and organic foods, you can increase your body’s antioxidant reserve by adding antioxidant supplements in your balanced diet.

DO YOU NEED ANTIOXIDANTS?

Everyone does. All of us need a steady supply of antioxidants to maintain our health and prevent diseases. Stressors like poor diet, alcohol consumption, mental stress, exertion, pollution and smoking can cause the radicals of our body to proliferate. In such cases, an external intake of antioxidants provides health benefits like:

It is quite simple to consume a diet rich in antioxidants. Focus on healthy eating by choosing unprocessed foods made from high-quality raw fruits and vegetables. Drink juices of your favorite fruits to get maximum benefits. Start eating brightly colored fruits and veggies like nuts, sprouts, berries, green leafy vegetables, herbs and spices on a regular basis. Add pistachios and nuts to your diet. Consider switching to green tea.

Antioxidants boost your energy levels, improve mental clarity, and protect your cells from radical damage. If you are considering taking a MEDICLAIM POLICY for your health and wellbeing, you should also consider eating healthy and staying fit. Including antioxidants in your daily routine will definitely elevate your health and lifespan.