Why Antioxidants are so Important

Antioxidants are a highly sought after product on the market today, but maybe you aren't exactly sure why everyone seems to be seeking this keyword. If you're confused, read ahead. We'll put it in simple terms.

Antioxidants are, from google, "a substance which inhibits oxidation", meaning that it keeps the slows the spread of oxygen. Oxidation of course, in these terms, is like when you leave cheese on the counter for a day and it loses its taste. Antioxidants however are most popularly associated with its purpose in eliminating free radicals.

What does antioxidants have to do with "free radicals"?

Free radicals are created during your body's typical cell metabolism cycles. A free radical is an unbound molecule without a partner. Since the cell has no partner the free radical becomes unstable and can cause damage to other cells, protein and even DNA. Antioxidants neutralize these free radicals by becoming bound to the unbound free radicals, returning it to a regular molecule. Because of this role towards neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants are believed to reduce your risk towards heart disease and cancer.

What kinds of foods contain antioxidants?

Many types of foods contain antioxidants, but if you are looking towards a supplement based option, you will see that many branded towards antioxidants will feature berries such as blueberries. However, antioxidants are found in many types of foods from berries, to avocados to carrots. Instead of looking for the keyword of antioxidants, look towards types of phytonutrients such as beta-carotene, lignans, or lycopenes. Antioxidants can be very common in many foods, so eat well, and if you feel that you need extra boosting power, try some antioxidant supplements.