The process of oxidative stress in the body takes place when there is chronic high stress, the immune system is compromised, we consume too much sugar as the source of energy in the body, there is presence of systemic inflammation, and the liver and kidneys are overwhelmed with detoxification of environmental pollutants, toxic chemicals, pesticides, food preservatives and other toxins in the body. The damage caused by oxidation generate free radicals which harm and age the body gradually due to damage done to cell, tissues, muscles and organs.
When antioxidant protection in the body is less than free radical damage resulting from oxidative stress, our immune system becomes overloaded and aging happens at a faster rate. Free radicals are considered a serious health risk as they are unstable molecules. Since they are missing an electron, they can create damage in anything they come in contact with as they take electrons from other cells or compounds, making the impacted cells unable to perform their functions normally and also becoming free radicals.
Use the following steps to address, reverse or prevent free radical damage in the body.
- Decrease exposure to oxidation by:
- minimizing stress or optimizing its magement;
- reducing exposure to environmental pollutants (smoke, exhaust fumes, plastic, etc.)
- avoiding sugar and processed foods;
- preventing infections.
These measures can reduce the toxic burden in the system.
- Consume foods high in antioxidants, such as:
- berries
- beets
- kale
- nuts and seeds
- ginger
- herbs and spices (turmeric, oregano, cinnamon, clove, rosemary, etc.)
- green tea
Eating foods rich in antioxidants can help restore the balance with free radicals.
- Promote the production of antioxidants in the system by consuming:
- asparagus
- walnuts
- peaches
- tomatoes
- spinach
- garlic
- onions
- avocados
- cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, kale, collards, etc.)
These foods promote the production of glutathione, one of the most powerful antioxidants produced in the body.
- Add some supplements to help enhance the antioxidant effect in the body:
- Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Coenzyme Q10
- Milk thistle
- Selenium
- Resveratrol
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Omega 3
- Astragalus
Some of these supplements support the body’s production of antioxidant glutathione.
