Antioxidants are dietary constituents, including certain nutrients such as vitamin C, beta-carotene and vitamin E. These antioxidants repair and prevent damages to our body cells. Antioxidants are part of the body’s defence system, which plays a vital role in protecting against free radical damage. Ascorbic acid, carotenoids, glutathione, melatonin, vitamin-A, C, E and tocopherols are a few examples of antioxidants. The good sources of antioxidants include all food rich in Vitamin C, E, and beta carotene.
Sources of Antioxidants
Antioxidants are abundant in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, millets, broccoli, whole grains, wheat, brown rice, peanuts, dark chocolates, eggs, soybean products, berries, avocados, kale and all other green, red and yellow-coloured fruits and vegetables.
Health Benefits of Antioxidants
Antioxidants are the body’s natural defence system that plays a vital role by protecting against oxidative stress and shielding the body from the destruction of free radicals. Antioxidants are particularly important for brain health. As the human brain grows older, it is more difficult for nerve cells to protect against highly reactive free radicals. These free radicals contribute to age-related degenerative diseases, including mental decline. Coffee is also a great source of antioxidants, which may support brain health as a person gets older.
Listed below are a few Health Benefits of Antioxidants.
- Antioxidants act as a body’s defence system and function by preventing neurodegenerative disorders.
- Antioxidants promote the growth of healthy cells by protecting the cells, cell structure and organelles against premature, abnormal ageing and oxidative damage.
- Antioxidants play a fundamental role in preventing cancer, cell death, tissue damage and other diseases, by slowing the ageing process.
- Antioxidants prevent heart-related disorders by supporting efficient metabolism and helping the body to lose fat more efficiently.
- Antioxidants are also involved in destroying the free radicals as they damage the body’s cellular levels, resulting in cell death and tissue damage.
Conclusion
Antioxidants are natural substances that are essential for healthy cells and can be found in many food sources. Nuts and seeds are also rich in antioxidants. Vitamin E shields cells from oxidative stress produced by free radicals.
According to the research, Antioxidants boost overall health by controlling cellular stress, inflammation, facilitating nephron functions and other physiological functions of cells, tissues, organs, digestive system, circulatory system, and even promoting efficient electrical signalling between mixed nerves. Therefore, it is more effective to get antioxidants through diet than by taking its supplements. Moreover, stay fit and enjoy eating a variety of fresh fruits, veggies and proteins daily.
These were some amazing health benefits of Antioxidants. Subscribe to BYJU’S YouTube Channel to watch interactive and engaging video lessons on exciting biology topics.