Benefits of Antioxidants

Antioxidants--the free-radical fighting enzymes associated with various fruits and vegetables--offer a number of benefits ranging from disease prevention to reversing the effects of aging. They can be consumed in a number of foods and products promoting antioxidants, as well as in supplements.

Anti-Aging

• Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals generally produced by skin damage from pollution or the sun's UV rays. In addition, vitamin C helps the body produce collagen, which is responsible for holding cells together.

Disease Prevention

• Antioxidants such as vitamin E and beta carotene have been shown to be effective in increasing cardiovascular health and preventing both heart disease and certain kinds of cancer. Specifically, vitamin E protects the heart and lungs as well as slows the body's aging process.

Cholesterol

• Polyphenols--powerful antioxidants found in fruits such as pomegranates--have been shown to reduce the amount of LDL cholesterol in the body. Polyphenols are fat soluble, and therefore tend to neutralize fat content and help the body rid itself of "bad" fats that clog arteries.

Energy

• Antioxidants help the body function better, with more energy. Specifically, the antioxidants in acai berries are promoted as an energy enhancer.

Depression

• Antioxidants found in omega-3 fatty acids help to alleviate depression. When various parts of the body show signs of inflammation caused by hormone fluctuation, depression, brittle hair and nails or an inability to concentrate may occur. Omega-3 fatty acids found in nuts, fish or flax seeds can boost hormone production and alleviate these symptoms.