Brought to by: Melody Ann's from Lee Swanson Research
Generated July 15, 2010
It's been several years now since reports about the importance of antioxidants hit the nationwide newscasts. Since then, study after study has shown how crucial antioxidant activity is to healthy living.
Why are antioxidants so important? Because they counter free radicals—highly unstable molecules that can damage cells. Free radicals are formed during oxidation, one of the body's natural processes.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states: “For example, free radicals are produced when the body breaks down foods for use or storage. They are also produced when the body is exposed to tobacco smoke, radiation and environmental contaminants. Free radicals can cause damage, known as ‘oxidative stress,' which is thought to play a role in the development of many diseases. In laboratory experiments, antioxidant molecules counter oxidative stress and its associated damage.
“The NIH continues: “The body can produce its own antioxidants and also obtain them from food. Antioxidants are abundant in vegetables and fruits and are also found in grain cereals, teas, legumes and nuts. Examples of antioxidants include anthocyanins, beta-carotene, catechins, flavonoids, lipoic acid, lutein, lycopene, selenium and vitamins C and E. Many antioxidants are also available as dietary supplements.
“That short review of free radicals and antioxidants brings me to another study involving antioxidants. Researchers have found that antioxidant supplementation over the long run appears to promote heart health and may beneficially affect sugar and fat metabolism. See my first report today for more information on this current study.
In other news, scientists analyzed blood samples from about 1,300 people in Amsterdam and found that low levels of vitamin D in the body may increase the risk of metabolic syndrome in the elderly population. The study was presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting. See my second report for the details.
Feeling tired? A new study published in Nutrition states: “Ingesting a low dose (approximately 2.3 g/d) of creatine for six weeks significantly increased plasma creatine concentration and enhanced resistance to fatigue during repeated bouts of high-intensity contractions.” Check out my last report today and perk up.
As always, I wish you the very best of health.
Lee Swanson
July 15, 2010
