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Every living creature on Earth needs oxygen to survive. However, while oxygen is essential for life, it also promotes aging by attacking our bodies. Fortunately, antioxidants protect us from free radicals. Let's explore how antioxidants help shield the body from oxidative stress.

While 90 to 95% of the oxygen we breathe is used to produce energy, 1 to 2% becomes free radicals. Our bodies need a certain amount of free radicals for chemical signaling and for white blood cells to remove external invaders. However, because free radicals are highly reactive, they can cause oxidative reactions with other molecules in the body, leading to cell, tissue, or DNA damage, inflammation, or protein modification. Excessive production of free radicals promotes cell aging and various diseases. "Oxidative stress" occurs when there's an imbalance between the production and removal of free radicals.

Fortunately, our body has an antioxidant system that removes free radicals or heals damaged cells, thereby protecting itself from oxidative stress. This antioxidant system is divided into two main categories: the enzymatic antioxidant system and the non-enzymatic antioxidant system. The enzymatic antioxidant system relies on various enzymes present in the body to neutralize harmful free radicals and protect cells. The non-enzymatic antioxidant system involves the intake of antioxidant vitamins and minerals through diet. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as colorful vegetables and fruits, provide essential phytochemicals that help combat oxidative stress. Additionally, moderate exercise can enhance the effectiveness of this system.

The process in which a substance combines with oxygen is called “oxidation,” and the resulting substance is called an oxide. A typical example of oxidation is the rusting of iron. Combustion, such as burning or explosions, represents a rapid oxidation reaction where a substance quickly combines with oxygen. Conversely, the reverse process, where oxides lose oxygen, is called a “reduction” reaction. For instance, extracting copper or iron from their ores involves removing oxygen in a process known as “smelting,” a classic example of reduction. In summary, oxidation involves an element combining with oxygen, while reduction involves losing oxygen. Free radicals, being highly reactive, rapidly oxidize other substances, including the cells in our body, similar to setting fire to oil paper. This explains why oxygen, though essential for life, can sometimes act as a life-threatening toxin.

Our Bodies Need Antioxidants To protect ourselves from the threat of free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and activate our body's antioxidant system, incorporating antioxidants into our diet is crucial. Consuming fruits and vegetables regularly, especially at breakfast, is a great start. Antioxidants in these foods activate our body's defense systems. Generally, brighter-colored foods have better anti-inflammatory effects. Notable antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables include dark leafy greens, strawberries, broccoli, peppers, cherries, oranges, tomatoes, pumpkins, avocados, and carrots.

Vitamin C is a well-established representative antioxidant that supports the immune system by removing cholesterol from the blood and protects against oxidative stress, reducing the risk of tissue damage. It is also known for its anti-aging properties and benefits such as preventing colds, relieving fatigue, enhancing skin health, and reducing stress. In addition to Vitamin C, noni, a tropical fruit, has gained recognition as a significant antioxidant in recent years. Rich in phytochemicals, noni exhibits powerful antioxidant effects by neutralizing free radicals that cause cell damage and aging. It also helps prevent viruses and bacteria from invading, making it an excellent addition to an antioxidant-rich diet.

While oxygen is crucial for life, it also produces free radicals that can harm the body. Antioxidants play a crucial role in combating oxidative stress by neutralizing these free radicals. Why not start filling your dining table with more colorful foods from today? Incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables can help protect against aging and cell oxidation. With antioxidants on your side, achieving longevity doesn’t have to be a distant dream.

⁕ This information is general health information and not directly related to any specific product.