The Effects of Too Many Antioxidants

Many foods and beverages now boast that they contain "antioxidants" and list all the benefits they can have on one's body. Antioxidants are meant to slow the effects of free radicals left in our bodies as a result of our body's using oxygen. While antioxidants can have positive effects, research is proving that there is a possibility of ingesting too many antioxidants.

Chance of Heart Failure

• Heart shock can lead to heart failure down the road.

  Nutrition is all about balance, so too much of anything could result in the body's experiencing a stress response. This stress can put the heart into shock and result in heart failure over time.

Reduced Muscle Function

• Muscles need oxygen to work properly.

  Antioxidants can potentially remove hydrogen peroxide from the body, which is necessary for blood vessels to dilate properly. Without proper blood flow, oxygen is not circulating well enough through the body. As muscles require oxygen, this can reduce overall muscle function.

Negative Effects on the Aging Process

• Fitness is necessary at any age.

  While many antioxidants boast anti-aging effects, they can also have negative consequences on the aging process. Too many antioxidants can have negative effects on blood vessels, which can result in reduced oxygen intake. Since the body will have to work overtime to replace that oxygen, heavier breathing can occur, which can deter physical fitness and result in weight and health problems over time.

Toxic Reactions

• High levels of antioxidants can mean toxic reactions.

  As with anything going into the body, too many antioxidants can result in high toxicity levels and will need to be quickly secreted. High toxicity levels can mean reactions such as diarrhea and internal bleeding.

Weakened Immune System

• A weakened immune system could mean it's easier to become ill.

  Antioxidants destroy free radicals that could cause harm to the body, but some free radicals have positive effects, such as fighting off certain germs and infections. Without these particular free radicals, the immune system can be left vulnerable to disease and harmful germs.

Hindered Medical Treatments

• Medical treatments need certain free radicals to be effective.

  Too many antioxidants can hinder the positive effects of medical treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy by destroying positive free radicals that work toward destroying cancer cells and certain bacteria.