The Importance of Antioxidants
Antioxidants are natural substances that prevent or reduce cell damage by counteracting the effect of oxidative stress. Free radicals cause oxidative damage. Free radicals come from a variety of sources such as air pollution, smoking, alcohol, pesticides, and poor nutrition. Commonly known antioxidants are vitamin C and E, carotenoids, lutein, lycopene, and zeaxanthin.
Antioxidants also play an important role in the aging process. As we age, we are more susceptible to free radicals, damaging our cells and in turn exceling the aging process. Therefore, having a healthy antioxidant status is one intervention for anti-aging.
How can you test for Antioxidants?
We currently offer a blood test that shows your resistance to oxidative stress relative to the general population. We use these results to determine which antioxidants are highly protective to you specifically. Ask your healthcare provider for more information.
How can we replenish antioxidants?
Diet
Eating plants that are rich in antioxidants is one of the easiest ways to replenish the body's antioxidant status. Fruits that are rich in antioxidants include blueberries, cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, figs, oranges, grapefruit, papaya, tomato and cranberries. Vegetables include broccoli, avocado, spinach, kale, collard greens, asparagus, sweet potatoes, eggplant, carrots, parsley, onions, leeks, garlic and artichokes. Animal sources include seafood, lean meats and egg yolks.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is the major antioxidant and is the first defense against free radicals in our blood. However, our bodies don’t absorb large amounts of vitamin C through our digestive system at one time. This is where nutrient IVs play an important role in bypassing the digestive system and supplying the body with antioxidants directly. We offer nutrient IV’s with different amounts of vitamin C with other nutrients important for replenishing antioxidant status formulated to your antioxidant needs.
Supplements
Our favorite antioxidant supplement is Dr. Mitchell’s Fruit Anthocyanins. This product is a liquid concentrate of red, blue and purple berries rich in antioxidants. Anthocyanins are not only powerful antioxidants but they also possess other important biological activities making this product ideal for maintaining health. We carry this product in office or you can order from our medicinary online.
Exercise
Regular exercise can also increase antioxidant capacity, protecting cells from oxidative stress and thus preventing cell damage. Therefore, maintaining a regular exercise regimen is important for optimizing health and increasing your body's ability to fight free radicals