Antioxidant supplements

Oxidants are also known as free radicals that are introduced into the body, because of external sources, such as pollution, stress, smoke, alcohol, unhealthy foods or over-exposure to the sun. These free radicals cause the cells of the body to breakdown. The word “anti” stands for opposite. Therefore, antioxidants are the substances, or nutrients that are present in our foods, which are capable of preventing the oxidation, or the breakdown of cells in our body. They can reduce the effects of any harmful oxidants and they repair the damage that has already been sustained, by the cells in the body.

Fresh fruits, vegetables and certain culinary herbs are known as antioxidant foods, as they contain high amounts of antioxidants. Some of the best antioxidant foods are broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, kale, squash, cantaloupe, apricots, peaches, collards and other fruits and vegetables that are high in color. Fruits like oranges, pink grapefruit, limes, watermelon, pomegranates, strawberries kiwi, and cranberries are also very high in antioxidant vitamins. It has been observed that foods that are generally high in vitamin C are also very rich in antioxidants. Therefore, in order to ensure that your body produces an adequate amount of antioxidant enzymes, it is very important to consume high quantities of antioxidant foods.

Unfortunately, due to our hectic lifestyles and lack of time, for proper meals, it is not possible, for all of us to make sure, that we eat healthy foods every day. In fact, most working people tend to make do with fast food, junk or processed food, meals on the go, instant food and other such quick, but unhealthy options. These foods usually do not contain the nutrients that are required by our body, to deal with everyday pressures and protect the body, from several diseases. Therefore, healthcare experts recommend that people who do not get the time to eat proper and nutritious meals, as well as the elderly people who at times reduce their intake of food should take daily antioxidant supplements, to make up for the lack of nutrients in their body. In fact, people who smoke or drink frequently, aspirin users and people with low immune systems can also benefit immensely, by adding an antioxidant dietary supplement to their daily diets.

Studies have shown that some of the most commonly taken antioxidant supplements are vitamin C supplements. Vitamin C, which is a vitamin that is water-soluble, is also an antioxidant. It is a great way of boosting the immune system and it is also vital for maintaining the good health of the skin, bones and teeth. It is important for the production of collagen, regulating blood cholesterol and healing wounds properly. However, very high amounts of Vitamin C could cause problems, like irritation of the digestive tract, diarrhea and other such problems. Therefore, people who take Vitamin C supplements should ensure that they divide the doses to avoid such symptoms. Smaller and frequent doses of Vitamin C are best, as they supply vitamin C to the body continuously.

Factors like smoking frequently and heavy drinking and deplete the amount of Vitamin C in your body. Therefore, habits like smoking and drinking should be strictly avoided. There are also certain medicines that reduce the levels of the vitamin present in the body. People who take steroids, antidepressants, analgesics or oral contraceptives may need to increase their intake vitamin C. Before adding any supplement to your daily diet, it is advisable to consult a doctor, especially for those people who are taking prescription medicines.