Antioxidants: Why do we need them?

Antioxidants are molecules that protect cells from the free radicals that can harm the cell.  Free radicals are unstable molecules that can be helpful or harmful to our body.  

Let’s take a step back to a high school chemistry class.  Dig deep and remember when your teacher was blabbing on and on about H2O and how it is formed and how atoms shared electrons with each other to form chemical bonds and thus molecules.  So if an atom loses or gains an electron, free radicals can form.

But how do free radicals enter the body?

Some ways that free radicals enter our body are through radiation, tobacco and cigarette smoke, medications, radon, asbestos, air pollution, toxins in processed foods and even some viruses.

High amounts of free radicals cause oxidative stress.  They can damage DNA, the cell membranes and proteins.  Since free radicals can damage protein, this can get in the way of regeneration of the skin which causes skin to age.

Antioxidants are the answer!

Since free radicals cause oxidative stress you need antioxidants.  They can be found in fruits and veggies but also in nuts, whole grains, poultry and fish.

Foods that are high in antioxidants are blueberries, dark chocolate, nuts (for selenium), pomegranates, and green tea.  Also foods that have allium sulfur compounds like garlic and onions are a great choice.

One ounce of NingXia Red has the antioxidant power of 50 heads of broccoli or 100 oranges.  Wowza!  This drink is a powerhouse as it is made with Wolfberries that have a vast history in Chinese medicine.

So go get your antioxidants today.  You will be glad you did!

Smoothie:

• 1 cup ice
• 1 cup milk of choice
• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
• ½ of a banana
• A pinch or two of flax seed and chia seeds
• 1 tsp sweetener 
• Pinch of Celtic Salt
• 1-2 scoops of Protein Powder

Blend until smooth Enjoy!