Powerful Anti-Aging Antioxidants!

Antioxidants

These are a group of substances that include vitamins C & E, along with beta carotene (safe form of vitamin A) and selenium.  Antioxidants boost the immune system and destroy free radicals (by-products derived from normal biochemical reactions and energy production) which if allowed to build-up can cause damage and are associated with cardiovascular disease, many cancers and ageing.  Everyone produces free radicals in the process of creating energy, but an excess may be produced by various factors such as stress, pollution & illness; antioxidants can disarm the free radicals and make them harmless.

 

Vitamin A

This vitamin plays an essential role in vision, bone growth and the health of the skin and the membranes inside the body, such as the lining of the respiratory tract.

Active forms of vitamin A, immediately available to the body, come from animal products such as eggs and dairy foods.

Beta-carotene, a substance found in orange, yellow and green vegetables and fruits is converted into vitamin A in the body.  Foods rich in beta-carotene include:-

Carrots

Leafy greens – broccoli, cabbage, kale, watercress, lettuce, spinach
Butternut squash
Peppers
Apricots                   
Peaches
Mango
Cantaloupe melon

Powerful antioxidant formula - those exercising on a regular basis have an
even greater need for antioxidants to help repair oxidative damage due to
intense exercise

Vitamin C

A very powerful antioxidant that cannot be manufactured by the body; therefore, must be acquired from the diet.  

Protects against cell damage and promotes a healthy immune system.   

Essential in the formation of collagen, a protein that strengthens bones and blood vessels.

Vital for tissue repair and wound healing.

Promotes the absorption of iron.   

Sources:-  

Citrus fruits (oranges/tangerines/clementines/grapefruits)

Broccoli
Brussels Sprouts
Peppers
Tomatoes
Blackberries
Melon
Pineapple
Cabbage
Strawberries
Kiwi fruit
Mango
Raspberries
Nectarines & peaches

The vitamin C content of food can be affected by cooking methods; cooking should be kept to a minimum, stir frying and steaming are best to retain vitamin C content, colour and texture.

As well as fresh fruit & vegetables, frozen & tinned varieties are just as beneficial.

Vitamin E

A powerful antioxidant protecting cells from damage. 

 

Helps to prevent the build-up of plaques in the arteries and therefore protects against heart disease.

 

Has been shown to increase the body’s immune response.

 

Important for maintaining healthy skin and for helping the healing process of all damaged tissue and skin wounds. 

Sources of vitamin E include:-

Avocado

Blackberries
Mango
Watercress
Almonds
Sunflower seeds

Selenium

Essential for the optimal function of many aspects of the immune system and plays a role in defending the body against infection.  Scientific studies suggest that selenium may protect against certain cancers and cardiovascular disease.

Sources:-

Brown rice
Brazil nuts
Wholemeal bread
Poultry
Fish

Give your body the nutrients it needs, so you not only look, but feel fabulous!
Cathy x