1. Antioxidants Equal Anti-Aging
Antioxidants are the anti-agers of the nutrient world, working to protect your body from free radical damage. Antioxidants work to counteract the damage caused by free radicals. Ideally, we would get our antioxidant protection from fruits and vegetables. But most Americans don't even eat the recommended five servings per day and remember, many foods are not as nutritious as they used to be. Therefore, to optimize your antioxidant intake, you need to go beyond food and supplement with antioxidant supplements, such as vitamins A, C, E and bioflavonoids.
2. The A-B-C of Antioxidants
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin is essential for the proper formation and maintenance of cell membranes. It helps boost your immune system, protecting against organisms that may cause disease. It also helps to support the structural integrity of the tissues. Vitamin A is also needed for the normal production of red blood cells, helping prevent fatigue caused by anemia. Plus, it improves the health of your skin and balances the adrenal system to enhance energy and stamina. Vitamin A also helps to protect your eyesight; just be careful not to exceed the recommended dosage, as too much vitamin A can adversely affect liver function. To be on the safe side, take beta-carotene, the water-soluble precursor and preferred source of vitamin A. Aim for 10,000 to 20,000 IU of beta-carotene per day.
3. "C" Great Health with this Incredible Antioxidant
As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps prevent the oxidation of "bad" low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, a process that can result in clogged arteries, heart attacks, and strokes. Vitamin C also lowers blood pressure, increases "good" high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, has an antihistamine effect, and can help shorten the severity and course of infections, such as colds. For general maintenance, you should take 1,000 to 3,000 mg of a mineral-buffered vitamin C a day, in divided doses. If you experience gas or diarrhea, cut back on the amount of vitamin C until symptoms subside.
4. Vitamin E is the Key for Heart Health
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, working to prevent cell damage throughout the body. But its claim to fame is its benefits for your heart. One type of vitamin E (gamma tocopherol) plays a major role in maintaining blood pressure and preventing congestive heart failure by regulating the passage of fluid through the kidneys and preventing blood clots from forming. For women, vitamin E is also helpful for relieving menstrual cramps, PMS and hot flashes. For general health, take 500 to 1,500 IU of natural vitamin E a day. If you have high blood pressure and insulin-dependent diabetes, check with your doctor before using vitamin E, as it can interact with blood pressure and diabetes medication.
5. Bioflavonoids--The Overlooked Cousins of Vitamin C
Bioflavonoids, while not true vitamins in the strictest sense, work together with vitamin C to form collagen, one of the body's main structural proteins and an important component in bone. Bioflavonoids also promote normal blood pressure, circulation, and capillary strength. For optimum antioxidant protection, take 1,000 to 2,000 mg of bioflavonoids a day.
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