Have you ever wondered what causes aging? Hippocrates (a Greek physician considered the Father of Medicine) speculated that each person had a set amount of innate “heat” or “vital force” which is used up over the course of a lifetime. Today, we see this explanation as overly simplistic, but the reasons behind aging are still largely a mystery.
Since the 1950’s, one of the predominant theories has been the Free Radical Theory of Aging. This theory states that unstable molecules, called free radicals, break down healthy cells, leading to damage that accumulates over time: in other words, aging.
Unfortunately, many factors of modern living can cause massive increases in a person’s free radical levels. What can be done to combat this and defend against cellular damage? The answer is found inside our own bodies.
Antioxidants!
Oxidative stress is often caused by factors such as:
·Exposure to air pollution
·Overexposure to UV rays
·Smoking
·Drinking Alcohol
·Eating fried/processed food
Where Can I Get My Antioxidants?
Antioxidants are abundant in natural sources. Foods such as fruits, berries and vegetables are all rich in antioxidants. In fact, antioxidants from foods such as these have been shown to be more effective at fighting oxidative stress than antioxidants from supplements.
·Acai Berry
The antioxidant anthocyanin, which is found in high levels in acai berries, may lower oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting skin health.
·Grape Seed
Grape seed extract (GSE) is a dietary supplement made from the seeds of grapes. It is a potent source of antioxidants, particularly proanthocyanidins. The antioxidants in GSE may help alleviate the oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage that can occur as a result of chronic diseases.
Wrapping Up
Antioxidants are best when obtained from food, but many people have found supplements helpful along their wellness journey. If you’re looking for a good antioxidant supplement, consider those listed above, as they are among the most popular and well-researched in existence.
