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5 Facts About Antioxidants

A few years ago, hardly anyone knew they existed. Now, antioxidants are all over the news. You’ve probably heard they’re good for you. And that that they’re found in fruits and vegetables. But for most people, that’s the extent of their knowledge. The following facts will help you gain a better understanding of these protective compounds which may just be the key to good health and a long life.

What are Antioxidants?  
Antioxidants are naturally occurring compounds in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and teas. Your body also makes them on its own.  

What Do Antioxidants Do?
Antioxidants protect healthy cells from free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive oxygen molecules generated in the body as the result of normal metabolic processes, like breathing or converting food into energy. They also result from exposure to environmental factors like smoke, pollution and UV sunlight. Free radicals “attack” healthy cells, damaging their structure and DNA. Many scientists believe free radical damage is behind disease and aging.

How Do Antioxidants Work?
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals so they can’t damage healthy cells. It works like this (in a nutshell): Free radicals are “charged” (think of UV sunlight “zapping” cells in your skin). The charge causes them to lose an electron. In a frantic attempt to stabilize themselves, free radicals “steal” electrons from nearby molecules, damaging them in the process. Antioxidants are “extra” molecules in the bloodstream—there for the sole purpose of donating electrons to free radicals, stopping them from bothering healthy cells. You should have a regular supply of antioxidants in your bloodstream, to serve as an army against free radicals.

What Are the Best Sources of Antioxidants?
Vitamins A, C, E, carotenoids (like beta-carotene) and minerals are antioxidants. The best way to obtain them is to eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Top antioxidant foods include blueberries, blackberries, cherries, red grapes, Granny Smith apples, carrots, broccoli, green pepper, sweet potatoes, cooked tomatoes, walnuts, sesame seeds, almonds, kidney beans, red beans and pinto beans. Tea is also a rich source of antioxidants called flavonoids. Wine and coffee contain antioxidants called polyphenols.

Should I take Antioxidant Supplements?
Antioxidant supplements (available in pill, powder and liquid form) have been popular for decades and provide a concentrated, isolated source of the protective compounds. Many scientists believe, however, that the dietary, whole food sources of antioxidants are best for health.

Nine Natural Habits to Support Longevity

For the most part, if you want to live longer, you have to live better. Here are some natural ways to lead a better lifestyle that can support longevity:

 

 

1.    Move Around. It doesn’t have to be jogging on the treadmill. There are plenty of daily activities that can get you moving, such as gardening, walking to a friend’s house, or parking your car far from the office.

2.    Follow Your Heart. Find something you can be passionate about—whether it be painting, volunteering, singing, mentoring, or anything else you enjoy—and pursue it relentlessly. 

3.    Wind Down. Know when to relax. Take vacations, sleep in occasionally and find some way to unwind every day.

4.    Eat Less. There’s no need to stuff yourself at every meal. Stop eating when you’re 80% full and save yourself the burden of extra and unnecessary consumption of calories.

5.    Consume Plants. Eat more natural foods and skip the meat and processed products. Not only will you be increasing your nutrient intake, at the same time you’ll be cutting out a number of potentially harmful ingredients.

6.    Drink Up! A glass or two of red wine a night can give your body an antioxidant boost, helping to protect it from harmful free radical damage.

7.    Mingle. Social interaction is important for mental and physical health. Join a group, meet new people, and expand your social network.

8.    Search Your Soul. Even if you’re not religious, you can still engage in spiritual soul-searching activities such as meditation or reflection.

9.    Focus on Family. Put your family members first and make sure they do the same. Everyone will benefit from the trust and protection that a close family provides.

 

 

We want to hear from you—what are some practices you engage in that help you lead a better lifestyle?

Go for Goji

Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, have been used by Asian herbalists for hundreds of years. Rich in numerous vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids and antioxidants, these seemingly dainty berries pack a powerful punch. For their incredibly petite size, goji berries deliver more Vitamin C than 30 g of oranges, more iron than 30 g of steak and more beta-carotene than 30 g of carrots. Goji berries also boast high levels of B vitamins, various antioxidants and potassium.

 

What does this mean for your health? For starters, the high antioxidant and B-vitamin content of goji berries offers your body protection from harmful free radicals that can damage your body’s cells. Some of the numerous antioxidants include manganese to support healthy skin, selenium to support healthy liver function, and beta-carotene to support healthy heart function and help protect your skin from the sun. Goji berries also contain important amino acids, including L-arginine and L-glutamine, which may support healthy immune and inflammatory response.

 

Where can you find goji berries? Many people consume goji berries by themselves or in the form of juice, but they can also be found in capsules, teas and snacks. You can find plenty of goji berry products at Vitacost.com and start reaping the benefits of goji today!

 

 

 

 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Six Berries You Should Eat

I love berries! Berries are not only delicious, they are a fantastic source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can help support overall health. Here are six berries that you should consider adding to your diet:

1. Bilberries: You may not be familiar with bilberries, which look like a smaller version of blueberries. Best taken in extract or supplement form, these berries are filled with antioxidant anthocyanins, which may help maintain healthy blood vessels and circulation.
2. Goji berries: These tiny red berries are a big source of numerous nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, beta-carotene, selenium and so much more.  Goji juice is a delicious way to drink in a healthy dose of nutrients and antioxidants.
3. Acai berries:  The health benefits of Acai berries are numerous. They are dense in anthocyanins, a substance that may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels already in the normal range. Acai berries are also rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from harmful free radicals.
4. Blueberries: Often used in pancakes, muffins, oatmeal, cereals and more, blueberries are a popular breakfast additive. They’re also packed with powerful antioxidants and phytochemicals that may protect the body’s cells from damage.
5. Strawberries: These are my personal favorite, even if they are not a true botanical “berry.” Strawberries, actually classified as a compound fruit, are high in antioxidant phytonutrients called phenols, which may support heart health as well as healthy inflammatory response. Strawberries also contain potassium, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins and magnesium.
6. Blackberries: I’m not talking about your cell phones. I’m talking about another “compound fruit” that is high in calcium, manganese, potassium and vitamin A, as well as a dietary fiber known as pectin, which supports healthy cholesterol levels already within normal range. Blackberries are also rich in antioxidants such as ellagic acid, which may help to protect your body from harmful free radicals.

 Check out Vitacost.com to find hundreds of berry products, including extracts, juices and dried snacks.

 

 

 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Why are Antioxidants Important?

So you may be wondering, what are antioxidants? They are vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Fighting off damage with antioxidants may help support healthy immune response.

But some foods are higher in antioxidants than others. The three major antioxidant vitamins are beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E. You’ll find them in colorful fruits and veggies; especially those that are purple, blue, red, orange, and yellow.  To get the largest benefits of antioxidants, eat these foods raw or lightly steamed; don’t overcook or boil.

• Beta-carotene and other carotenoids: Apricots, asparagus, beets, broccoli, cantaloupe, carrots, corn, green peppers, kale, mangoes, turnip and collard greens, nectarines, peaches, pink grapefruit, pumpkin, squash, spinach, sweet potato, tangerines, tomatoes, and watermelon.

• Vitamin C: Berries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupe, cauliflower, grapefruit, honeydew, kale, kiwi, mangoes, nectarines, orange, papaya, red, green or yellow peppers, snow peas, sweet potato, strawberries, and tomatoes.

• Vitamin E: Broccoli, carrots, chard, mustard and turnip greens, mangoes, nuts, papaya, pumpkin, red peppers, spinach, and sunflower seeds.

Other foods that are rich in antioxidants include prunes, apples, raisins, berries, plums, alfalfa sprouts, eggplants, onions and beans. But vitamins aren’t the only antioxidants in food. Other antioxidants that may help support healthy immune response include:

• Zinc: Found in oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, seafood, whole grains, fortified cereals, and dairy products

• Selenium: Found in Brazil nuts, tuna, beef, poultry and fortified breads, and other grain products.

Consider including some of  these in your daily diet… for maximum antioxidant protection.

 

 

 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Pass the Pomegranate!

Pomegranates are exotic fruits that are red in color and look like a cross between an apple and an orange. They are filled with delicious red seeds called arils which can be consumed raw or made into juice. In the Jewish faith, the pomegranate is the symbol for forgiveness, and pomegranates are even mentioned in Greek literature, specifically the myth of Persephone.

What’s so special about the pomegranate? One serving of pomegranate juice supplies about 16% of the daily vitamin C requirement for adults. It is also a great source of vitamin B5, iron and potassium. The nutrients found in pomegranates may help maintain cellular, immune and joint health. They may also support healthy circulation, as well as favorable blood pressure and cholesterol levels already within normal range.

Pomegranates also contain high levels of antioxidants. The antioxidant compounds found in pomegranates include polyphenols, tannins and anthocyanins. These antioxidants guard against the effects of free radicals and support circulation, immune function and normal inflammatory response. So try something exotic; replace your daily glass of orange juice with a glass of pomegranate juice!

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Support Healthy Aging… Naturally!

Like it or not, it is inevitable that we all age. Normal processes of oxidation cause the creation of free radicals that attack and deteriorate cells in the body, resulting in the body aging. Antioxidants are the vitamins, enzymes and minerals found in natural foods that destroy these harmful free radicals, therefore supporting healthy aging.

Research now confirms a balanced diet rich in whole grain cereals, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients. It also supports cardiovascular health, normal memory function and helps the body maintain a normal inflammatory response.

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), known as the universal antioxidant, is present in almost all tissues of the body. It plays an important role in generating energy from food and oxygen in mitochondria (the power plants of cells). Acetyl L-carnitine (ALC) is similar in form to the amino acid L-carnitine. ALC assists in the transport of fat through the cell membrane and into the mitochondria of the cell, where fats are oxidized to produce the cellular energy ATP. ALC also supports a healthy nervous system and helps maintain memory.

Taking a daily supplement that contains these valuable antioxidants may help support overall health and a healthy aging process.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

Spirulina for Overall Health

Spirulina, which is blue-green algae high in protein, vitamins and minerals, may be an immune booster of sorts, as a number of animal studies point to spirulina's ability to stimulate both antibody and cellular types of immunity. Spirulina guards digestive health and is shown to encourage the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria needed to balance the GI tract.

Personally, I enjoy spirulina for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. The algae's high levels of evercetin and phycocyanin have been shown to alleviate respiratory ailments and aid inflammation associated with joint pain and backache. In addition, high levels of carotenoids in spirulina guard cell health and protect vision.

Many vegans and vegetarians have made spirulina their primary source of protein. The blue-green superfood contains both essential and nonessential amino acids and is similar in structure to animal protein, so it's great for lean muscle building and maintaining healthy weight.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

Antioxidant Mangosteen has High ORAC Rating

Mangosteen is touted as a powerful antioxidant to aid in the battle against damaging free radicals. The hull, pulp and seeds of this sweet, South African fruit have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese medicine. Mangosteen may help support healthy blood sugar already in the normal range, normal cognitive function and healthy inflammatory response.

ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, a measure used by nutritionists to rate the antioxidant power of a nutrient and its ability to reduce oxidative stress on cells. But claims of mangosteen's high ORAC may be more accurately attributed to compounds such as grape seed extract, pomegranate, blueberry, goji and noni - substances often paired with mangosteen in free-radical-fighting juices and dietary supplements. Why? Because the xanthones in mangosteen - phytocemicals responsible for the fruit's antioxidant power - primarily occur in the fruit's edible rind, negligible amounts of which are found in the majority of mangosteen products.

The good news? High-grade mangosteen supplements usually contain essential vitamins, minerals and other high ORAC components, which together may help support overall health.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

The Fight Against Free Radicals: Antioxidants

The importance of antioxidants when it comes to fighting deadly free radicals cannot be stressed enough.

Free radicals react with chemicals in your body, causing oxidative stress and interfering with your cells’ ability to function normally. They are believed to play a role in more than 60 different health concerns. Free radicals become more of a concern as we inevitably age, so it is important to address them early before they take their toll.

Some of the more well-known antioxidants are vitamin C, vitamin E, lycopene, lutein, CoQ10 and extracts of green tea and grape seed. Stand-alone formulations are always available, but a combination of these nutrients helps promote total body protection. You should also pay attention to another group of antioxidants known as carotenoids. They’re found in leafy greens and richly colored fruits and vegetables (Those in the red, orange and yellow categories).

 

 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”