What is an antioxidant compound?

Many people are unaware of what an antioxidant compound is and its effects on the human body.

It is a shame that this happens, since antioxidants are essential molecules for our health. Therefore, from The EveryDay Lab in Mexico, we will answer the question about what an antioxidant compound is .

In simple terms, antioxidants act as defenders of our cells. Its main function is to neutralize free radicals , unstable molecules that are produced in our body as a result of natural processes such as breathing or exposure to environmental toxins .

Why is the antioxidant compound important in the human body?

Antioxidant compounds are essential for the human body for the following reasons:

They combat oxidative stress

The body produces free radicals naturally as part of cellular metabolism. However, exposure to environmental toxins, poor diet, and stress can increase its production .

Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, DNA , and other cellular components. This damage, known as oxidative stress, has been linked to premature aging and chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, preventing cellular damage and reducing oxidative stress.

Strengthen the immune system

Antioxidants help strengthen the immune system by increasing the production of immune cells and improving its ability to fight infections.

They protect the skin

Antioxidants protect the skin from sun damage and other environmental factors that can cause wrinkles, sun spots, and skin cancer.

Of interest: Hydrolyzed Collagen What is it and what is it for?

Improve cardiovascular health

Antioxidants help protect arteries from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of heart disease.

They can improve cognitive function

Some studies suggest that antioxidants may help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's .

In general, antioxidant compounds are essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases.

It is important to consume a diet rich in antioxidants, which are found in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and dark chocolate.

Do foods help increase antioxidant compounds in the body?

Food plays a crucial role in increasing antioxidant compounds in our body .

Nature provides us with a wide variety of foods rich in these compounds, which are essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases.

Having an eating habit based on these foods can significantly improve your overall health.

What foods are rich in antioxidants?

There are numerous foods full of antioxidants that are beneficial for our health. Below, I present some notable examples, categorized into groups:

Fruit

• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and cherries are some of the fruits with the highest antioxidant content, especially anthocyanins and vitamin C.
• Citrus fruits: Orange, grapefruit, lemon and tangerine are rich in vitamin C, an essential antioxidant to strengthen the immune system and protect cells from oxidative damage.
• Grapes: Grapes, particularly red and black, contain resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective properties.
• Kiwi: This fruit is a great source of vitamin C, in addition to containing lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that protect eye health.
• Apple: Rich in flavonoids, such as quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Pear: Contains vitamin C, vitamin K and fiber, as well as antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin.
• Pomegranate: It is one of the fruits with the greatest antioxidant power, thanks to its high content of polyphenols, such as punicalagin.

Vegetables

• Broccoli: A cruciferous vegetable rich in vitamin C, sulforaphane and other antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and protect cells.
• Spinach: They are a source of vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid and lutein, an antioxidant that protects eye health.
• Kale: Considered a superfood, kale contains vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium and antioxidants such as kaempferol and quercetin.
• Carrot: Rich in beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A that protects eyesight and skin, and acts as an antioxidant.
• Tomato: Contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that protects against heart disease and some types of cancer.
• Red pepper: Source of vitamin C, vitamin A and capsaicin, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Sweet Potato: Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C and anthocyanins, antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and protect cells.
• Beet: Contains betalains, pigments with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as nitrates that improve sports performance.

Other foods that are good antioxidants

• Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa (more than 70%) is rich in flavonoids, antioxidants with cardioprotective properties.
• Nuts and seeds: Brazil nuts, almonds, pecans, chia seeds and flax seeds are sources of vitamin E, selenium and other antioxidants.
• Legumes: Beans, lentils and chickpeas are rich in fiber, proteins for the skin and antioxidants such as polyphenols.
• Green tea: This drink contains catechins, antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties that promote cardiovascular health.
• Spices: Turmeric, ginger and cinnamon are spices with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit overall health.

What if I have a good antioxidant compound in the body?

Having a good level of antioxidant compounds in the body is associated with a series of health benefits, including:

Prevention of oxidative stress

As we mentioned above, antioxidants fight free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases.

A good level of antioxidants helps neutralize these free radicals, preventing oxidative stress and protecting cells from damage.

Strengthening the immune system

Antioxidants help stimulate the production of immune cells and improve their ability to fight infections.

This means that a good level of antioxidants can help keep you healthy and prevent disease.

Skin care

Antioxidants protect the skin from sun damage and other environmental factors that can cause wrinkles, sun spots, and skin cancer.

A good level of antioxidants can help keep skin healthy, young and radiant.

Improved cardiovascular health

Antioxidants help protect arteries from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of heart disease.

A good level of antioxidants can help maintain a healthy heart and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Possible improvement in cognitive function

Some studies suggest that antioxidants may help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

While more research is needed in this area, a good level of antioxidants could have a positive impact on brain health.

Healthy aging

Antioxidants fight cellular damage that is related to aging.

A good level of antioxidants could help delay the signs of aging and promote healthier aging.

We hope that this article on “ what is an antioxidant compound ” has helped you understand this topic in more depth. Remember that at The EveryDay Lab we have extensive products for vaginal and sublingual collagen in Mexico.