Steps to Maximize the Benefits of Antioxidants

Simple Steps to Maximize the Benefits of Antioxidants

Enjoy  5 servings of fruits and vegetables with variety of colors daily

Have some grains, nuts, seeds, herbs.

Cut down on fried foods and saturated fat. Do not eat burnt foods.

Quit smoking and stay away from second hand smoke.

Avoid strong sunlight between 10am – 4pm. If you need to go outdoor, remember to bring umbrella and use sun block.

Manage stress, since stress is one of the factors causes free radicals formation.

How Much Do I Need?

The American Heart Association, for one, does not recommend using antioxidant supplements "until more complete data are in," but instead, suggests "people eat a variety of foods daily from all of the basic food groups." Moreover, in April 2000, the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine, an advisory group that is part of the National Academy of Sciences, reported that Vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, and carotenoids like beta-carotene should come from food, not supplements. After examining available data on the beneficial and harmful health effects of antioxidants, the panel concluded that there isn't enough evidence to support using large doses of these nutrients to combat chronic diseases.

 

In fact, the group warned that extremely high doses of antioxidants may lead to health problems, including diarrhea, bleeding, and the risk of toxic reactions.

The Bottom Line

Antioxidants are found abundant in beans, grain products, fruits and vegetables. Look for fruits and vegetables. So enjoy eating a variety of foods. It is best to obtain these antioxidants from foods instead of supplements.