It's the radicals, man
Free radicals are on the atom level and
scientifically speaking are unique in that they have an unpaired
number of electrons. and they are formed when oxygen interacts with
certain molecules. Once formed these free radicals attack cells and can
start a chain reaction. Their danger comes from
the damage they can do when they react with important cellular
components such as DNA, or the cell membranes. When cells are attacked
they of course function poorly or die. To prevent free radical damage the body
has a defense system of antioxidants. It is thought that free radical
damage to blood vessels is a key ingredient to poor circulation. The
damage causes inflammation and thus cause blood platelets to stick on
the inside of the vessel wall.
Antioxidants are molecules which can safely interact with free
radicals and terminate the chain reaction before vital molecules are
damaged. Although there are several enzyme systems within the body
that scavenge free radicals, the principle micronutrient (vitamin)
antioxidants are vitamin E, beta-carotene, and vitamin C.
Additionally, selenium, a trace metal that is required for proper
function of one of the body's antioxidant enzyme systems, is sometimes
included in this category. The body cannot manufacture these
micronutrients so they must be supplied in the diet. Hardening of the Arteries, Heart Attack Stroke, Intravenous (IV) Chelation Antioxidant Approach
Vitamin E d-alpha tocopherol. A fat soluble vitamin
present in nuts, seeds, vegetable and fish oils, whole grains (esp.
wheat germ), fortified cereals, and apricots. Current recommended
daily allowance (RDA) is 15 IU per day for men and 12 IU per day for
women.
Vitamin C Ascorbic acid is a water soluble vitamin present
in citrus fruits and juices, green peppers, cabbage, spinach,
broccoli, kale, cantaloupe, kiwi, and strawberries. The RDA is 60 mg
per day. Intake above 2000 mg may be associated with adverse side
effects in some individuals.
Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A (retinol) and is
present in liver, egg yolk, milk, butter, spinach, carrots, squash,
broccoli, yams, tomato, cantaloupe, peaches, and grains. Because
beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A by the body there is no set
requirement. Instead the RDA is expressed as retinol equivalents (RE),
to clarify the relationship. (NOTE: Vitamin A has no antioxidant
properties and can be quite toxic when taken in excess.)
Vitamin E d-alpha tocopherol.
A fat soluble vitamin present in nuts, seeds, vegetable and fish oils,
whole grains (esp. wheat germ), fortified cereals, and apricots.
Vitamin C
Ascorbic acid is a water soluble vitamin present in citrus fruits and
juices, green peppers, cabbage, spinach, broccoli, kale, cantaloupe,
kiwi, and strawberries. The RDA is 60 mg per day.
Acai Berries has numerous nutritional uses. Acai is
a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, essential fatty acids, and
amino acids. In nature, anthocyanidins give many fruits and flowers
their colors.
Blueberry The American blueberry (Vaccinium) has long been
recognized for its flavor, nutrition, and health benefits. Early
settlers valued the blueberry as a major ingredient in foods and
medicines.
Goji
Berries/Wolfberry But why take Goji Berry in the first place?? Goji
Berry/Wolberry is the most hyped MLM product going today. We are shocked
to see the price of up to $60 for a bottle of juice.
Preventing cancer and heart disease -- do antioxidants help?
Antioxidants are also thought to have a role in slowing the aging
process and preventing cancer, heart disease and strokes.
Exercise and oxidative damage
Endurance exercise can increase oxygen utilization from 10 to 20
times over the resting state. This greatly increases the generation
of free radicals, prompting concern about enhanced damage to muscles
and other tissues. |
