Why Take Antioxidants?

The Importance of Antioxidants to Good Health

We've all heard of antioxidants. They are substances our body needs to fight off the free radicals that surround us.

Free radicals are uncharged atoms or molecules with unpaired electrons. These unpaired electrons are highly reactive, so free radicals are likely to set off chemical reactions.

In the human body, free radicals cause havoc by setting off chain reactions that damage the interior and exterior of our internal cells, also doing the same to our biggest organ, the skin surface. When a free radical attacks a skin cell it does enough damage to constitute the beginning of a wrinkle.

Free radicals not only cause wrinkles and creases on areas of the body exposed to sun, but are also thought to be responsible for such things as coronary artery disease, diabetes and cancer.

Free radicals have many origins, such as UV radiation (i.e. the sun), cigarette smoke, industrial pollutants, pesticides, etc.

The body produces antioxidants from diet, but it is currently thought that the body has only a limited supply that is used up as we fight off the free radicals around us. Therefore, antioxidant supplementation is recommended to ensure the body has a sufficient arsenal to be effective all day long.

Antioxidants not only help prevent some diseases, but they play a role in keep us younger looking and feeling. They provide protection for the skin from the inside out, as well as help with bodily functions such as energy production, mental alertness and keeping sugar levels steady.

Antioxidant supplements are an essential part of every antiaging regime.

For information on individual antioxidants,type the name into the search box above, e.g. Alpha Lipoic Acid, Coenzyme Q10, Vitamin C, Vitamin E ...

More AntiAging Vitamins & Supplements Articles

AntiAging Supplements
Dietary Sources for Vitamins and Minerals
The Major Antioxidants
Other Important Antioxidants
Other Essential Vitamins & Minerals