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 happens in every single place from slice of potato turning brown to rust in a machine. It is a common process that also exists inside a body. Human body generally handles oxidation well, but occasionally it results in cell damage. The damaged cells are referred to as free radicals. They are molecules with unpaired electron. Due to the fact it is unpaired, it will attempt to take an electron from other molecules. When this action becomes intense, it can cause a number of medical problems which include cancer, heart disease and arthritis. Cigarette smoke, pollution and radiation also add up to the development of free radicals. Antioxidants are compounds that counteract free radicals.

By giving the missing electron to free radicals, antioxidants protect against cell damage. It is vital to take foods that give antioxidants regularly to remain in good health. Many fruit and veggies are a fantastic supply of antioxidants thanks to vitamins C and E. Vitamins are known to be among the best antioxidants. Fruits and veggies such as strawberry, kiwi, papaya, spinach, bell pepper, and broccoli are a good supply of vitamin C and E. But these vitamins are not the only supply of antioxidants and actually they are certainly not the best source.

Increasingly more health nutritionists agree Epigallocatechin or generally known as EGCG is a stronger source of antioxidants than vitamins E and C. A large number of scientists agree that EGCG is 100 times more efficient than vitamin C and 25 times more effective than vitamin E in reducing free radicals. EGCG is a substance available in green tea. A number of the acknowledged green tea extract health benefits include preventions against heart disease, cancer, gaining weight, bad cholesterol and depression.

There were a large number of clinical tests concerning the effects of green tea on cancer cells. The end results suggest the dosage of 300mg of EGCG on a daily basis to be the best amount. A cup of tea provides roughly 100mg of EGCG. A lot more research studies are on the way, however as for now 3 cups daily looks like 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.




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