Why Are Antioxidants Anti-Aging?

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Unlike the title implies, antioxidants are not truly anti aging. The benefits offered by this select group of organic substances, is profound, in that the body reacts to these substances in a preventative manner against cancers, heart disease and stroke. Antioxidants and anti aging have become synonymous over the years. But, what are the best sources of antioxidants and how do they help the body?

What Are Antioxidants?

The actual term “antioxidant” can refer to one of a list of vitamins, minerals and supplements. Some of the most common antioxidants include vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, beta carotene and selenium. Antioxidants and anti aging effects are accomplished as a person consumes food rich in these vitamins and minerals. When higher levels of antioxidants for anti aging are desired, supplemental forms of these vitamins and minerals can be taken daily.

What Do Antioxidants Do?

Over time, free radicals build up in the body and tend to damage cells, cell walls, and the genetic structure of the cell. Antioxidants destroy these free radical and this keep the cells of the body free from damage. The longer cells are able to maintain a helathy structure the better the health of the person. Here in lies the link between antioxidants and anti aging.

Antioxidants are freely available in many natural foods. While supplemental forms of antioxidants are available, the body best absorbs antioxidants when consumed in food format. Food versions of antioxidants are more readily available for the body and easier to digest than those offered in supplemental form. Citrus fruits and broccoli are great sources of vitamin C, while wheat germs nuts and seeds offer generous amounts of vitamin E. If beta cartoene is the antioxidant anti aging free radical killer you are looking for, carrots, squash and sweet potatoes can help. And shellfish, red meat and eggs are the perfect sources for the antioxidant selennium.

When trying to consume more antioxidants, make sure to consume foods that are helpful to the absorption of the vitamin. Vitamin E, for instance, is a fat soluble vitamin that requires some fat present in order to dissolve completely in the stomach.

Antioxidants are natures way of helping the body to fight off harmful diseases and conditions. With a regular diet filled with antioxidants, the body will grow stronger and cell damage will be kept to a natural minimum. Anti aging with antioxidants is the easiest and healthiest way to better your health and your life.