The importance of antioxidants for your immune system

Antioxidants are compounds that keep you healthy by neutralising chemicals in your body, known as free radicals. Antioxidants are produced naturally by your body and are also commonly found in fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants work by 'mopping up' free radicals. Some common antioxidants include vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene.

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Antioxidants and Disease Prevention

Research into antioxidants and their role in disease progression is constantly evolving. Currently there are studies that indicate that a diet rich in antioxidants is associated with longevity and good health. There is also some evidence indicating that antioxidants can help prevent certain diseases.

Common compounds that function as antioxidants and their sources are

• Vitamin C - commonly found in citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, berries and papaya
• Vitamin E - commonly found in seed-like cereal grains, plant oils, nuts and eggs
• Beta-carotene - commonly found in dark green leafy and orange-coloured vegetables
• Selenium - commonly found in fish, lean meats, grains and brazil nuts
• Anthocyanins - commonly found in berries, grapes and eggplant
• Copper - commonly found in cocoa, wheat bran and yeast
• Ubiquinone - commonly found in fish, meat and peanuts
• Flavonoids - commonly found in berries, tea and coffee
• Resveratrol - commonly found in dark-skinned grapes and red wine
• Phytochemicals - commonly found in soybeans, tea, apples, onions, cocoa and herbs

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Antioxidant Supplements

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Research into antioxidants and their role in disease progression is constantly evolving. Currently there are studies that indicate that a diet rich in antioxidants is associated with longevity and good health. There is also some evidence indicating that antioxidants can help prevent certain diseases.

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Healthy Eating

It is clearly understood that antioxidants neutralise harmful free radicals in your body. It has been shown that eating fresh fruit and vegetables, rather than taking antioxidant supplements, works better to prevent disease. Fruit and vegetables also contain many other elements other than antioxidants that can help to keep you healthy. Overall, it is best to eat a healthy diet with a wide variety of fruit, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains and dairy products each day to stay healthy.