“What is an antioxidant?” We are going to answer the question why they are so important for our body and which nutrients are the most powerful. source of antioxidants We will also explore it in detail.
This is also about the other effects of antioxidants on health wonderful molecules We will shed light on everything you are wondering. If you’re ready, let’s begin this healthy journey of discovery!
Even though we hear it often, if we don’t know exactly what they do, let’s first answer the following question: What is an antioxidant?

“What is an antioxidant?” If we had to give a very simple answer to the question, it would be this: antioxidants are natural defenders that fight harmful free radicals in our body and protect our cells.
Although antioxidants are also naturally produced in our bodies, they can also be obtained through diet. such as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene antioxidants, It is abundant in various fruits and vegetables. Regular consumption of these foods helps us maintain our health by supporting our body’s fight against free radicals.
In addition to protecting our body, antioxidants act as a shield.
What do these living protective antioxidants do? The secret lies in their fight against free radicals.
Free radicals are molecules that occur naturally during the use of oxygen in the body and can damage cells. oxidative stress, This happens when excessive free radicals are produced and the body cannot balance this situation. This is where antioxidants come into play.
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals and minimize the damage they cause to cells. This process helps the body deal with oxidative stress and maintain cell health. Also this process preventing DNA damage and also contributes to reducing inflammation.
In addition to the antioxidants produced by the body itself, antioxidants that are consumed through food also support this defense mechanism. Especially colorful fruits and vegetables, green leafy vegetables, Foods such as nuts and seeds are considered rich in antioxidants. Consuming these foods regularly also helps the body effectively fight free radicals and improve overall health.
Antioxidants and the fight against infections

Antioxidants not only protect cells, but also in the fight against infections Did you know that they play an important role in Yes, these small but powerful molecules, our immune system He could be one of your best friends.
The immune system protects our body against bacteria, viruses and other harmful organisms. So are antioxidants proper functioning of the immune system By supporting it, it increases our resistance to infections. Antioxidants, especially vitamin C and vitamin E, boost the body’s ability to fight infections by increasing the functionality of immune cells.
What are the most powerful antioxidants?

What foods should we choose in our diet to get antioxidants straight from the source? Fortunately, nature provides us with many foods rich in antioxidants. Here are the most common and effective antioxidant nutrient Some varieties:
- Vitamin A: Milk, eggs, butter, liver
- C vitamin: Kiwi, orange, grapefruit, melon, papaya, pepper, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, tomato, cauliflower, cabbage, turnip, beet, mustard, strawberry
- Vitamin E: Hazelnuts, peanuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach, kale, corn, rapeseed, soybeans, avocado, chard, turnip greens, red pepper.
- Beta-carotene: Apricots, papaya, peaches, mango, melon, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, broccoli
- Lycopene: Watermelon, apricot, grapefruit, tomato
- Lutein: Broccoli, peas, papaya, orange, kale, spinach, kale
- Selenium: Bread, corn, wheat, rice, pasta, fish, chicken, turkey, nuts, eggs, cheese, legumes, shellfish, barley
- Zinc: Poultry, shrimp, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, oysters, cashew nuts, chickpeas, lentils
By including these foods in our diets, you can increase your antioxidant intake and help your body fight oxidative stress. However, a healthy and balanced diet is foods rich in antioxidants It also requires adequate intake of several food groups.
The antioxidant benefits don’t stop there.
The benefits of antioxidants are not limited to fighting diseases. These powerful compounds also have significant effects on overall health and quality of life. For example, antioxidants skin health It can improve skin health, reduce signs of premature aging and even lower the risk of chronic diseases.
For skin health, antioxidants protect against damage caused by UV rays maintaining the youthful appearance of the skin It helps.
Additionally, some studies indicate that a plant-based diet with antioxidants may protect against oxidative stress-related diseases. However, the question arises here: whether this protective effect is due to antioxidants, other substances in the diet, or a combination of both. it’s not clear.
Be careful when taking antioxidant supplements!

many people antioxidant supplement He wonders whether he should buy it or not. There is no single answer to this. Because it can differ from person to person. But in general we can say that with a balanced and varied diet sufficient antioxidants claim. Please note that it is best to consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
“Is there harm from excessive consumption of antioxidants?” is another matter of curiosity. As with anything, overuse of antioxidants can be harmful. Taking very high doses of antioxidants can disrupt the body’s balance and lead to certain health problems. A balanced diet is the healthiest approach.
Other things to know about the risks of antioxidants:
Although many potential benefits of antioxidants are reported, keep in mind that those taken through supplements in particular can interact with other medications you are taking. High dose smokers beta-caroteneFor those taking blood thinners, the only person they should consult before taking vitamin E supplements is their doctor.
Don’t forget this one too!
A balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables contains a lot antioxidant food You get it too. Know that this can help reduce the risk of some diseases, but antioxidants alone cannot prevent chronic conditions. In other words, we should not assume that his duty only applies up to a certain point and put more pressure on it.
Some antioxidants, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Not approved or regulated by. This basically means that if the antioxidants you take are not FDA approved, the ingredients listed on them and the recommended dosage will not be accurate.
high dose before taking antioxidants talk to your doctor. They can help you determine which supplements, if any, are right for you.
Sources: Medical News Today, Harvard Health Publishing, National Library of Medicine
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