5 good reasons to stock up on antioxidants

1. Fight cellular ageing

Antioxidants are recognised for their anti-ageing effects. By stopping free radicals from attacking our cells, antioxidants help fight premature ageing, reducing what is commonly referred to as oxidative stress. Response for cellular damage, increased oxidative stress affects the body’s tissues and organs. It’s involved in many of the effects of ageing including the appearance of wrinkles. Little wonder then that antioxidants are increasingly valued for their ability to stem the body’s ageing processes!

Which antioxidant to choose? One of many antioxidant substances, astaxanthin is often highlighted for its powerful protective effects. Part of the large carotenoid family, astaxanthin is actually the natural red pigment that gives certain shellfish their pink colour.

2. Prevent cardiovascular disease

By combatting premature ageing, antioxidants help prevent cardiovascular disease. As well as protecting the heart against free radical damage, some antioxidants have also been shown to have a hypocholesterolaemic effect. In other words, they help restrict the build-up of cholesterol on artery walls. Known as atherosclerosis, this process is responsible for a number of cardiovascular diseases. By causing the arteries to narrow, the accumulation of cholesterol deposits on artery walls – referred to as atheromatous plaques - increases the risk of hypertension, stroke and heart attack … Suffice to say that antioxidants are good for the heart and deserve to be included in your daily supplementation regimen!

Which antioxidant to choose? Associated with the famous French Paradox, resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant found in grapes and wine. Part of the polyphenol family, resveratrol has demonstrated positive results for preventing cardiovascular disease. According to some studies, the activity of this polyphenol may also help combat metabolic syndrome, a collection of clinical symptoms which predispose towards the development of certain cardiovascular disorders.

3. Protect the brain and nervous system

Antioxidant activity benefits not only the cardiovascular system but also the brain and nervous system. In fact a number of studies have shown that these substances offer neuroprotective effects, helping to prevent the development of cognitive and neurological problems. Accordingly, certain natural antioxidants are being investigated for their potential to prevent the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Initial results have identified promising new therapeutic prospects …. !

Which antioxidant to choose? A potent antioxidant and neuro-protector, R-lipoic acid has been attracting scientific interest for a number of years. This health-beneficial substance is now available as a nutritional supplement.

4. Prevent the development of cancer

Scientists have identified a number of environmental and lifestyle factors that increase the risk of cancer. These include smoking, alcoholism, pollution and poor diet. Indeed the quality of our diet has a significant impact on our health: studies have shown that an unbalanced diet can increase the risk of developing a malignant tumour. Scientific research has also shown that the risk of developing cancer can be reduced by ingesting certain nutrients and molecules, including antioxidants!

Which antioxidant to choose? Synergistic formulations have been developed which offer the protective and cancer-preventive effects of antioxidants. One such formulation is AntiOxidant Synergy which combines 12 different antioxidants such as resveratrol from grapes, curcumin from curcuma and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea.

5. Combat the harmful effects of pollution

Air pollution exposes the body to an abundance of particulates that are harmful to health. Studies have shown that exposure to these micro-particles is responsible for an increase in oxidative stress. Over the long-term, oxidative stress-induced free radicals can lead to the development of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and chronic conditions. By countering free radical damage, antioxidants thus offer considerable therapeutic benefits for fighting the harmful effect of pollution.

Which antioxidant to choose? Many studies have confirmed the protective effects of antioxidants against air pollution. Among those investigated, vitamin E has emerged as particularly effective at preventing increases in oxidative stress.