Antioxidants are components of foods and can also be taken as dietary supplements. They can be vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, flavonoids or other compounds. Antioxidants act to restrict the oxidation process, which occurs via the loss of an electron on the molecular level. The loss of an electron can result in a free radical, which can cause damage to the human body on a cellular level. Antioxidants cancel the negative effects of free radicals, thereby being beneficial to good health. The International Food Information Council cites studies that show that antioxidants have beneficial effects on conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular health. Knowing what antioxidants are can help people make good dietary decisions.
Cartenoids
These include beta-carotene, which is present in carrots and various fruits and strengthens the antioxident defenses of cells, and lycopene, which is found in tomatoes and processed tomato food products and can help maintain good prostate health. Carotenoids also include lutein and zeaxanthin, which are found in corn, eggs, citrus, spinach, collards and kale and can help maintain healthy vision.
Flavonoids
This group includes flavonols, which are found in tea, onions, apples and broccoli, and flavanols, which are found in chocolate, cocoa, tea, grapes and apples. Flavonols and flavanols help to eliminate free radicals, thereby strengthening the antioxident defenses of cells. This group also includes flavanones, which are found in citrus foods and anthocyanidins and help to neutralize free radicals. This group also includes anthocyanidins, which can be found in red grapes, cherries and berries and may contribute to the maintenance of healthy brain function. It also includes proanthocyanidins, which are found in grapes, wine, cranberries, cocoa, apples, strawberries and cinnamon and is believed to contribute to the function of a healthy heart.
Isothiocyanates
Isothiocyanates strengthen the antioxidant defenses of cells. They can be found in broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale and horseradish.
Phenols
This group includes caffeic and ferulic acid, which are found in citrus fruits, pears, apples and some vegetables. Phenols can contribute to a health of the heart and help maintain healthy vision.
Sulfides and Thiols
This group includes diallyl sulfide and allyl methyl trisulfide. These substances can be found in leeks, scallions, garlic and onions. This group also includes dithiolthiones, which are found in cabbage, broccoli and collards. This group can contribute to the maintenance of a healthy immune system.
Whole Grains
These can be found in cereal grains and might reduce the risk of diabetes and coronary heart disease. This group may help reduce the risk of cancer and coronary heart disease.
Vitamins and Minerals
The vitamins that fall under the antioxidant classification include vitamins A, C and E. Selenium is a mineral that is considered an antioxidant. Vitamin A is found fish, dairy products and liver. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits and bell peppers. Vitamin E can be found in fortified cereals, sunflower seeds, mixed nuts and oils. Selenium is found in tuna, meats, plant foods and Brazil nuts. These vitamins and minerals help to eliminate the damage to cells that is caused by free radicals.
Member Comments