With the rising concerns for our health and pursuit of a more balanced life, recognizing antioxidants' role has become vital. Today you will understand why you should include sources of antioxidants in your routine.

WHAT ARE ANTIOXIDANTS?

Antioxidants are natural substances present in foods or produced by our own bodies, which can combat and neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage in our bodies.

Free radicals are formed during the process of cellular oxidation, and when in excess, can cause damage to the DNA, proteins, and lipids, resulting in what we call oxidative stress, which consists of the imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals. When there is oxidative stress, it's possible the occurrence of premature cellular aging and even the development of diseases. 

HOW DO ANTIOXIDANTS PROTECT AGAINST FREE RADICALS?

By neutralizing free radical activity, antioxidant agents help strengthen the immune system, improve brain function, boost cardiovascular health, and benefit our health and skin. 

IMPORTANCE OF ANTIOXIDANTS

1. BODY HEALTH

Multiple scientific studies show that oral intake of multivitamins and multimineral supplements (rich in antioxidants) can decrease the number of lipids - fat - and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, a diet rich in antioxidants also reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and even some types of cancer.

2. SKIN HEALTH

Antioxidants also play an important role in skin health. Exposure to the sun's UV rays, urban pollution, and other environmental elements can generate free radicals in the skin. This can result in premature aging, fine lines, flaccid skin, and blemishes. Antioxidants help neutralize these free radicals and protect the skin against these agents.

HOW TO ADD SOURCES OF ANTIOXIDANTS TO YOUR LIFE?

Studies show that the use of medications, smoking, nutritional conditions, alcohol consumption, air pollution, and other factors can decrease the levels of cellular antioxidants. Because of that, replacing the body's antioxidant defenses against environmental agents is crucial.

DIET

One of the easiest ways to secure antioxidants is through diet. Foods rich in vitamins C and E are excellent sources of this molecule.

• Fruits: blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, oranges, apples, and kiwis are excellent sources of antioxidants, like vitamin C and E and flavonoids.
• Vegetables: Spinach, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin are high in antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, E, and carotenoids.
• Nuts and seeds: almonds, chestnuts, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds contain antioxidants, omega−3 fatty acids, and vitamin E.
• Green tea: known for its high polyphenols concentration, it is an excellent source of beneficial antioxidants for our health.
• Dark chocolate: contains flavonoids, antioxidants that can help improve heart and skin health.

SUPPLEMENTATION

Moreover, supplements like vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium can also be used to complement diets and provide an extra dose of antioxidants to the body. 

SKINCARE

Another way to enjoy antioxidant benefits is to apply cosmetics with antioxidant action, which combat and prevent premature cellular aging.

SIMPLE ORGANIC PRODUCTS WITH ANTIOXIDANT ACTION:

• Niacinamide Serum
• Vitamin C Serum
• Oxyresveratrol Serum
• Retinol-Like Serum
• Eye Balm
• BBA Oil
• Rosehip Oil
• Vitamin C Body Booster

Also, we recommend that you talk to a nutritionist to find the best ways to increase antioxidants in your diet with professional supervision.

SO, DID YOU ALREADY KNOW ABOUT THE POWER OF ANTIOXIDANTS? TELL US IN THE COMMENT SECTION!

REFERENCES:

FREE RADICALS AND DIET'S MAIN ANTIOXIDANTS [in Portuguese]

FOODS WITH ANTIOXIDANTS FUNCTION IN CHRONIC DISEASES: A CLINICAL APPROACH [in Portuguese]