Why Consume Antioxidants?

This is simply all about energy.  We must convert the food we consume, into the energy we use to fuel our day to day lives.  The more energy we have, the more able we are to achieve the life we would ultimately like to be living.

In order to give our bodies energy, we need oxygen molecules.  The oxygen molecule, having a smaller number of electrons, is able to accept electrons from our food and release the energy into our cells.

It is unfortunate that during this natural process, a large number of electron-deficient molecules will manage to escape.  These molecules are better known as free radicals.

These free radicals then steal electrons from any stable molecule they come in contact with, and the ongoing theft can leave cells damaged and unable to successfully reproduce.

When this process of destabilization occurs, it is known as oxidation. There is large body of research that links this oxidative damage of the cellular structure, to that of many modern health related issues.

No wonder our energy levels aren’t always where we would desire them to be.

This is why antioxidants are of so much benefit to the body – by sharing their electrons, antioxidants are able to neutralize free radicals and stop the severe damage they would otherwise cause.

Where do we find antioxidants?

Found in some of our most important food groups, antioxidants are particularly abundant in fresh organic fruits and vegetables.

A diet high in antioxidant rich vegetables and fruit is actually able to redress the balance of electron-deficient molecules and reduce oxidative stress.

The modern diet of western society has unfortunately taken a path that sees most people not getting many of the essential nutrients and anti-oxidants that they need. In fact, our modern diet is the reason so many chronic illnesses have been on the rise, unabated, for a couple of generations.

So, what other choice is there?  How about a supplement. Which antioxidant should we choose? Well, there are a couple of things to consider.

Bio-availability is a key measure of an antioxidant and refers to how easily the body can use and assimilate it.   Another important consideration is the antioxidant strength. A standard known as ORAC (oxygen radical absorption capacity) is often used to compare the relative strength of antioxidants. Check your anti-oxidant against others on the market by using this scale.  Something as simple as increasing your anti-oxidant intake could increase your energy levels and have you feeling better. Why not give it a go.