Antioxidants are molecules that inhibit the oxidation of other molecules. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals, these free radicals can lead to cell damage which can cause cancer, arthritis, fibrosis, psoriasis, along with other inflammatory illnesses. Free radicals are natural by-products of biochemical reactions in the body.
Antioxidants help the body by being a free radical scavenger, it will donate an electron to a free radical before it can oxidize other cell components. Once it is paired, it becomes stable and non- toxic to cells.
Antioxidants boosters include
- Dark green vegetables, lettuce, leeks, broccoli, collards, kale, contain Vitamin A, C, E and calcium
- Sweet potatoes, carrots, butternut squash, contains vitamin A and C which are antioxidants
- Berries contain a phytochemical called ellagic acid, which is a powerful antioxidant.
- Avoid free radical generating substances, which include fried foods, alcohol, tobacco, pesticides, and air pollutants.
