What Are Antioxidants?
There are a lot of buzzwords in the fitness and health space that you've probably heard of. One of them is antioxidants. You've probably heard all the countless health benefits they offer from promoting glowing skin to boosting the immune system! Despite all the marketing claims you may have seen on social media, they are not the magic elixir that everyone believes them to be.
However, they do have some impressive health benefits, which is why we've included an antioxidant blend in our Super Greens Powder. In this article, we're going to give details on exactly why we've included this blend in our Super Greens. We'll break down antioxidants and their benefits in a simple, easy-to-understand way. We'll also provide a list of foods high in antioxidants so that way you can make sure to get enough of them in your diet.
What do antioxidants do?
They are molecules that can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can damage cells, DNA, and other important biological molecules. This damage is called oxidative stress and is believed to play a role in the development of many chronic diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
Antioxidants work by donating electrons to free radicals, which can help neutralize them and prevent them from causing further damage. Some antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, can also help regenerate other antioxidants in the body, such as glutathione and coenzyme Q10.
In addition to their ability to neutralize free radicals, some antioxidants also have other beneficial effects on the body. For example, flavonoids, which are found in many fruits and vegetables, can help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and support the immune system.
Overall, the role of antioxidants in the body is complex and multifaceted. While their primary function is to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress, they may also have other beneficial effects on health.
Benefits of antioxidants
- Reduced risk of chronic diseases: Many chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer, are linked to oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants can help reduce this damage and lower the risk of developing these diseases.
- Improved immune function: They can help support the immune system by reducing inflammation and promoting the production of healthy immune cells.
- Protection against aging: They are believed to help protect the body against the effects of aging by reducing oxidative stress and damage to cells and tissues.
- Enhanced cognitive function: Some studies suggest that they may help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
- Reduced inflammation: Inflammation is a common factor in many chronic diseases, and antioxidants can help reduce inflammation by neutralizing free radicals and other harmful molecules.
Antioxidant-rich foods
If you want to reap the antioxidant benefits then it's best to have a diverse diet! That's because they work best with other nutrients and plant chemicals that are naturally present in whole foods.
So, make sure to have a diverse diet and include these foods high in antioxidants...
- Berries: Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are great sources of antioxidants and flavonoids. They are also a good source of fiber and other nutrients.
- Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants. It has been shown to have potential benefits for heart health, brain function, and blood sugar control.
- Nuts: Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans are rich in antioxidants, as well as healthy fats and other nutrients. They are also a good source of protein and fiber.
- Leafy greens: Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and flavonoids. They are also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Fruits: Fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, kiwis, and mangoes are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. They are also a good source of fiber and other nutrients.
- Vegetables: Vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and broccoli are rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamin C. They are also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Spices: Spices such as turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon are high in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation in the body. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
- Whole grains: Whole grains such as oats, quinoa, and brown rice are rich in antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin E. They are also a good source of fiber and other nutrients.
Should you take antioxidant supplements?
Antioxidants have excellent health benefits, so you may be asking yourself if supplements are the best way to ensure you're getting enough of them... and the answer isn't straightforward.
You should aim to eat the foods listed above to ensure you're getting enough of them, but also other nutrients. Always prioritize whole foods over supplements. However, it doesn't hurt to have a supplement to take when you need a boost. Just remember to have other nutrients in combination so that they work best.
For example, 373 Lab's Super Greens contains 2 grams of a high-quality antioxidant blend, along with other important nutrients to help boost the immune system, improve digestion, and boost natural energy levels!
In summary, antioxidants play an important role in protecting the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Consuming a diet rich in antioxidant-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support overall health. Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods into your daily diet is a simple and effective way to support overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. By making small changes to your diet, you can ensure that you are getting the nutrients your body needs to function optimally and thrive.
Interested in 373 Lab Super Greens?
Our Super Greens blend is packed with vegetables, fruits, grass, algae, antioxidants, fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics to help boost the immune system, digestion, energy, and training performance! Plus, it tastes great with only water.
Just one scoop a day will help you feel refreshed, renewed, and energized – and give your gut health the boost it needs!
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