The Antioxidants These are substances that occur in countless foods. Free radicals are molecules produced daily in the body and are the result of various biological reactions that take place at the cellular level. He excess free radicals It is promoted by body inflammation, alcohol and tobacco use, environmental pollution, stress or inadequate nutrition (processed foods, fats, chemical additives, sugars).
Oxidative stress caused by the action of leftover free radicals can lead to weakened immune systemaccelerates processes associated with aging and affects the development of pathologies such as: atherosclerosis, cataract, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, neoplastic and neurodegenerative diseases.
The antioxidants They are the agents responsible for neutralizing the overproduction of free radicals. The body generates free radicals and some antioxidants throughout life, but as time passes the production capacity of antioxidants decreases and it is necessary to compensate for the necessary doses by using an external supply of them.
Antioxidants: beta-carotene or pro-vitamin A
It is the pigment responsible for giving color to many fruits and vegetables (yellow, orange and green leaves). It has the ability to transform into vitamin A when the body needs it. This vitamin intervenes in the production of melanina substance that naturally protects the skin against sun rays. The superfoods they provide are: carrots, tomatoes, peppers, organic broccoli and spinach.
Antioxidants: Vitamin E
Vitamin E positively stimulates the immune system, intervenes in cellular interrelationship processes, is a vasodilator, has an anticoagulant effect and is one of the most powerful antioxidants. Avocado, spinach, broccoli, asparagus and almonds are superfoods with a high vitamin E content.
Antioxidants: vitamin C
Also called ascorbic acid, vitamin c It has since become essential for the proper functioning of the entire body strengthens the immune system and is involved in a wide range of functions, such as wound healing, digestion, prevention of certain cancers and diabetes or the common cold, among others. It is found in kiwis, broccoli, strawberries and tomatoes.
Antioxidants: flavonoids
Flavonoids are phytonutrients (containing only vegetables) that are involved in the protection of the body. against external harmful substances with oxidizing effectsuch as UV rays, environmental pollution and harmful substances in foods, cleaning cosmetics, etc. Foods such as grapes, green tea, blueberries, spinach or strawberries are good sources of this. antioxidants.