Why you should be getting more of these

why you should be getting more antioxidantsAntioxidants have become a huge topic of conversation nowadays, not only among the health conscious, but among everyone. It’s the latest health craze—you can find antioxidants in everything. They’re in foods you eat, in skincare items you use, and are popular supplements. If you’re looking to increase your antioxidant intake, you won’t have to look very far.

While it’s become a buzzword, it’s not very clear what they do. Lots of people take antioxidant supplements because they’ve heard that they’re good for your health.

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It’s true that they’re good for just about everything, but it would pay off to know what exactly they’re for. Taking antioxidant supplements won’t do any harm to your health, but knowledge is power.

Four reasons you should increase your antioxidant intake

Improve your eyesight

A common antioxidant, beta-carotene, is amazing for your eyes. It’s the main reason why carrots are so good for your health. One study found that “women under 75 who ate plenty of foods rich in [carotenoids] appeared to halve their risk of macular degeneration.”

Save your heart from trouble

Flavonoids—a form of antioxidant—can lower your risk of heart disease by huge numbers. Wine is known to contain an abundance of this potent antioxidant. Antioxidants also weaken cholesterol, making it less likely to affect your arteries, where it would be able to reach your heart.

Free radicals are known to weaponize cholesterol and damage your body as a whole, so you’ll want to do your part and reduce these. Foods high in sugar are a big no-no if you’re worried about your free radical levels.

Protect yourself from cancer

Eating a lot of fruits and vegetables has been proven time and time again to protect the body from cancer. In particular, you’ll want to look for fruits and vegetables that are red and yellow—bell peppers anyone?—as they’ve been proven to be the best at combating free radicals. Here are some stats:

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a.  One study found a 64 percent reduction in prostate cancer among men who consumed the most beta-carotene
b.  Studies have revealed low rates of prostate cancer among men who consume a lot of tomatoes and cooked tomato products, which contain the carotenoid lycopene

Safeguard your mental health

Those who have been stricken by cases of dementia, like Alzheimer’s patients, have had their brains attacked by free radicals. You should try amping your intake of vitamins.

Related: How to spot antioxidants in the supermarket


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http://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-eats/nutrition/5-reasons-to-eat-more-antioxidants/

Related Reading:

Antioxidant found to slow signs of aging

What you need to know about antioxidants

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