Why you Must Eat Foods Rich In Antioxidants
The oxidation process in our body damages our cell membranes, cellular proteins, and our DNA structures. Free radicals are created when oxygen is metabolized. However, the human body can deal with some free radicals and also require them to function effectively.
But free radicals over time trigger certain serious conditions including liver disease, heart disease and also stomach, oral, esophageal and bowel cancer. Therefore, an overload of free radicals must be avoided to stay away from certain diseases and also from irreversible damage to your body. Antioxidants found in certain foods may prevent some damages caused by these free radicals, so here are some reasons why it’s crucial to include antioxidant-rich foods and drinks in your diet.
Fights Inflammation
Deficiency of antioxidant compounds in your regular diet can lead to inflammation and result in degenerative diseases. Unstable oxygen molecules try to rob an electron to regain stability, creating a domino effect that causes inflammation. Antioxidants prevent oxidation, thus helping you to avert inflammation in the process.
Helps Prevent Diabetes
Diabetes is often associated with an increase in the development of free radicals that can be countered by antioxidants. Antioxidants can prevent glucose overload, which would have otherwise damaged cells through oxidative stress. Plant antioxidants, particularly the polyphenols, have been found to reduce blood sugar levels.
Benefits The Skin
The exposure of your skin to high levels of ultraviolet light triggers photo-oxidative damage (with the formation of various reactive species of oxygen), which is the key contributor to premature skin ageing, sunburn (erythema), photodermatoses and certain skin cancers. Antioxidants protect your skin from oxygen’s reactive species, thus delaying the signs of ageing like wrinkles, dark spots, sunburns, etc.
Supports The Immune System
Antioxidants help reduce free radicals, which are highly- reactive compounds that either enter your body from your surroundings or get formed as byproducts during normal body processes. Since the free radicals can compromise your immune system, including antioxidants in your diet helps in boosting your immunity. Therefore, to avert the damages caused by stress of life and the oxidation process, it’s important to choose your food wisely and emphasize on antioxidant-rich foods and drinks.