The scientific community has been doing antioxidant research for years with impressive results. Antioxidants can be found in our bodies, in the food that we eat, including some teas, especially Green Tea, and in vitamins like A,C and E.
Antioxidants are nutrients that fight free radicals, destructive molecules that can damage cells. Many forms of cancer are thought to be caused by the reaction of free radicals and DNA. That reaction produces mutations leading to malignancy, weakened immune system, and increased signs of aging.
Free radicals are found in the environment and produced by the body’s metabolism as result of a diet high in processed sugars and fats, cigarette smoke, and alcohol. Research has shown that antioxidants may reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease as well as fight against arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease and aging. One study, done at UC Irvine College of Medicine, suggests that the antioxidant Vitamins E and C may even help to prevent and treat high blood pressure.
In 2005, the FDA recommended that Americans increase daily consumption of antioxidants to about 12 servings of fruit per day to fight the rampant explosion of cancer in the United States. Yet recent research has shown that Americans get most of their antioxidants from coffee. Dieticians and scientists suggest the best way to get antioxidants is from organic fruits and vegetables.
Many of the foods that we find in our natural environment can provide the daily dose of antioxidants. This year the U.S. Department of Agriculture rated certain foods that have high antioxidant properties. Some at the top of the list include blueberries, dried plums, artichokes, red cabbage, cherries, pecans, walnuts, cinnamon and oregano.
Although many questions still remain, hundreds of studies, completed and ongoing, suggest that antioxidants may be one of the essential ingredients in the fight against serious disease.
