antioxidants consumption

An antioxidant is a molecule capable of slowing or preventing the oxidation of other molecules. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that transfers electrons from a substance to an oxidizing agent. Oxidation reactions can produce free radicals,which start chain reactions that damage cells. Antioxidants terminate these chain reactions by removing free radical intermediates, and inhibit other oxidation reactions by being oxidized themselves.

Researches promote the idea that antioxidants can reduce or even reverse the damage caused by the body by “free radicals,” combating chronic diseases and the ravages of aging. Antioxidants have been shown in some studies to enhance overall immune function, protect the eyes from cataracts and macular degeneration, slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease, and reduce the risk of some cancers.Research studies show that individual antioxidants in the form of dietary supplements are more potent and bio available then they are in foods, and they do not exhibit the synergistic effects with other components found within natural foods sources.

Research studies to date in vitro and in animals show consistent evidence supporting
antioxidant health benefits,yet human trials have been disappointing.There is also recent evidence that suggests, under certain circumstances, supplementation may actually do more harm than good. Therefore, supplements most likely do not possess all the physiologically active components needed to be truly effective in preventing disease incidence and progression.

In order to delay the aging process and free radical-induced diseases, The American Heart Association doesn't recommend using antioxidant vitamin supplements until more complete data are available. They continue to recommend that people eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods daily from all the basic food groups. To add, it also says, “Oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol is important in the development of fatty buildups in the arteries. This process, called atherosclerosis, can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Until recently, it was thought that LDL cholesterol lipoprotein oxidation and its biological effects could be prevented by using antioxidant supplements. However, more recent clinical trials have failed to demonstrate a beneficial effect of antioxidant supplements.The American Heart Association supports a diet high in food sources of antioxidants and other heart-protecting nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts instead of antioxidant supplements to reduce risk of CVD.

Despite these, the use of antioxidant supplements in the U.S. continues to grow. Antioxidant supplements are extremely available in today’s world. Most all American’s have a diet available to them that provides sufficient levels of the nutrients they need, but many choose to take supplements instead. Possible decreased nutrient value of crops and an aging population that is living longer, has more disposable income, believe supplements to be safe and effective, and willing to self – medicate in an effort to feel better and decrease health care costs has driven the popularity and increased use of antioxidant supplement sales.

In addition, supplements may also interfere with the actions of other medication and cancel their effect on the body. In my opinion, consumers are beginning to realize that many claims made about supplements and functional foods are marketing “hype” designed to increase sales. We should strive to meet our nutrient needs through the diet because it is safer and more beneficial to our health.

In conclusion,eating a variety of foods low in saturated fat,trans fat and cholesterol will provide a natural source of these vitamins, minerals and fiber.Consuming supplement may interfere with the body natural defense mechanism and may cause complications.

Foods which Contain Antioxidants:

1 Small red beans
2 Wild blueberries
3 Red kidney beans
4 Pinto beans
5 Blueberries
6 Cranberries
7 Artichoke hearts
8 Blackberries
9 Dried prunes
10 Raspberries
11 Strawberries
12 Red delicious apple
13 Granny Smith apple

Research Facts

1. Dark chocolate increases your immunity and improves cardiovascular health.
2. Nuts lowers cholesterol level and satisfies your appetite without causing weight gain. Go nuts!
3. Did you know that eating at least one fish meal a week can significantly reduce risk for Alzheimer disease, and increase brain functioning? In the meantime, make the smart choice and eat fish. No wonder they travel in schools. Try salmon, which is high in omega –3 fatty acids and much lower in mercury than other types of fish.
4. Eating 5 to 6 times a day actually increases your metabolism, burns calories quicker, lowers cholesterol and promotes fat loss. In the meantime, don’t forget to SATISFY those midday munchies.
5. Eat your tomatoes for lycopene to help prevent against cancer, specifically prostate. Research shows fresh tomatoes, tomato sauce or paste are more powerful than the lycopene supplements. 6. 20% of children are overweight or obese, November’s journal of Pediatrics published findings that behavioral health needs more attention when analyzing weight gain. Depression is linked to more TV watching and eating. Help your kids be happy, they’ll be healthier.
7. No more eat till you pop!
8. Cocoa is high in flavonols that improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure.
9. Eating high fiber foods, 25 to 35 grams of fiber a day can prevent heart disease, cancer and reduces calorie intake, which promotes weight loss. Eat 5 servings a day of fruits and vegetables and a couple servings of whole grains to help you live longer and healthier. Did you know that the fiber in 5 servings of fruits and vegetables and cereals with at least 5 grams of fiber will actually help you… In the meantime, remember when it comes to fiber give yourself a high five.
10. Did you know that exercising helps keep you smart. Studies show the benefits of exercise in improving decision making and pattern of blood flow in the brain. In the meantime, remember to make time to move.
11. Did you know that people with higher fat diets are more likely to experience vision loss at a younger age? Harvard researchers found that people who ate 70 grams of fat, had nearly 3 times the risk of progressing to advanced macular degeneration compared to people with the lowest intake of fat (24 grams). People who ate more than 2 daily servings of processed baked goods were more than twice as likely to have their disease progress as people who virtually never consumed those foods. Processed baked goods contain high levels of saturated fat and trans fat, which increase heart disease risk. , do good for your heart and eyes, by choosing fruits and vegetables rather than pies, cakes and cookies. In the meantime, see your way clear to a low fat lifestyle!
12. Eat at least 2 fruits and 3 vegetables along with whole grains at your meals and you’ll meet your needs. Did you know that research looking at the diet records of over 100,000 men and women in US and Europe show that for every 10 gram increase in fiber there is a 14% decreased risk in getting a heart attack and a 27% decreased risk of dying from heart disease? In the meantime, don’t forget to pump up the fiber.
13. Did you know that eating foods rich in vitamin C, such as fruits and vegetables protect against arthritis? Studies show that people who consumed the lowest amounts of vitamin C were 3 times more likely to develop arthritis compared to those who consumed the highest amounts.
In the meantime, keep your bones and joints strong and have a fruitful day!
14. Did you know that Yo-yo dieting may increase one’s risk for disease? Researchers at the Hutchinson Cancer Research Center found that repeatedly losing and regaining weight may have a lasting negative effect on immune function, whereas maintaining the same weight appears to have a positive effect.
In the meantime, rather than going up and down in your weight, try going up and down with the weights as a step towards long-term health.
15. 3 svgs. lowfat dairy per day may lead to greater weight loss. A trip to the dairy section may mean inches off your mid-section.
16. Did you know that increasing the level of magnesium in your diet may help lower your risk for Diabetes? Results from over 150,000 men and women found that individuals who ate foods rich in magnesium such as roasted almonds, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and beans, were least likely to develop diabetes.
In the meantime, make sure to incorporate magnesium rich foods in your diet and enjoy the sweet life!
17. Cannabinoid Receptor 1 helps control hunger. Acomplia weight loss drug blocks it.