What Are Antioxidants And Why Are They Important?

By Tom Nelson


Numerous doctors are promoting fruits and veggies as part of a regular diet regime. There are many great reasons to the suggestion, but one of the reasons is antioxidants that many vegetables and fruits offer. However what are antioxidants? Why are they extremely important?

Oxidation process exists everywhere from slice of banana turning brownish color to rust on a piece of metal. This is a natural activity which also happens in a body. Our body system normally handles oxidation well, but from time to time it leads to cell damage. The damaged cells are known as free radicals, molecules with unpaired electron. Since it is unpaired, it will try to take an electron from another molecule. When this effect gets excessive, it can easily result in quite a few health issues which include cancer, heart problems and arthritis. Cigarette smoke, pollution and radiation also add to the development of free radicals. Antioxidants are compounds that counteract free radicals.

By providing the missing electron to free radicals, antioxidants protect against cell damage. It is vital to take food items that include antioxidants daily to be in a healthy condition. A lot of fruits and vegetables are a fantastic source of antioxidants thanks to vitamins E and C. Vitamins are known to be one of the best antioxidants. Vegetables and fruits like strawberry, kiwi, papaya, spinach, bell pepper, and broccoli are a fantastic supply of vitamin C and E. But these vitamins are not the only supply of antioxidants and actually they are not the utmost source.

An increasing number of dieticians agree Epigallocatechin or often called EGCG may be a more powerful supply of antioxidants compared to vitamins C and E. Many researchers agree that EGCG is 100 times more beneficial than vitamin C and 25 times more efficient than vitamin E in eliminating free radicals. EGCG is a compound found in green tea extract. Several of the known green tea extract health benefits include preventions against bad cholesterol, depression, heart disease, cancer and gaining weight.

There have been numerous lab tests with regards to the effects of green tea on cancer cells. The final results show the serving of 300mg of EGCG a day to be the best amount. A cup of tea offers close to 100mg of EGCG. Additional case studies are on the way, but for right now 3 cups per day is a good amount.

There are multiple ways to take in green tea. Standard way is to brew and to drink the hot tea. This is great way especially when consumed with meals. One additional preferred way is to blend tea powder with citrus water. Combining citrus juice with EGCG is actually recognized to multiply the health benefits. More simple way is to consume green tea pills. This is perfect for individuals disliking the taste.




About the Author: