An antioxidant slows or prevents cellular damage. The prefix 'anti' means in opposition to, against, or corrective in nature. An antioxidant is really a behavior; rather than a substance. Thus, any compound that can counteract free radicals and donate electrons has antioxidant properties. May experts believe the damage caused by free radicals are a contributing factor in the development of various blood vessel diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, cataracts, and other serious illnesses. Antioxidant supplements can be taken to counter these effects. These supplements are a convenient and quick way to get the free-radical fighting support the human body needs.
Free Radicals
Within the body, numerous processes are constantly occurring, and these processes require oxygen. However, that same oxygen may create harmful, oxidant substances, which cause cell damage. Oxidants, or "free radicals", can also be introduced into the body through external sources such as exposure to pollution or the sun. Other mediums include stress, alcohol, cigarette smoke, and unhealthy foods. Oxidation causes a breakdown of body cells in much the same way as it creates rust o the surface of inanimate objects. Free radicals attack healthy cells, proteins, and fats. This leads to a speeding up of the aging process and a weakening of immunological functions.
How Antioxidants Help
Anti-oxidation agents, or antioxidants, minimize the effects of harmful oxidants by binding together with those dangerous molecules, thereby decreasing their destructive properties. They can also help repair damaged cells. Certain anti-oxidation agents are produced naturally within the body. They include glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase. Other antioxidants, however, are found in vegetables and fruits, those with the brightest colors being healthiest. Spinach, tomatoes, carrots, and red peppers are good examples. Choosing raw vegetables and fruits rather than cooked foods provides the best absorption and highest concentration of antioxidants.
Here Are Some Recommended Kirkman Antioxidant Supplements
• Alpha Lipoic Acid
This is a vitamin--like antioxidant that can protect cells, tissues and the body against free radical damage. This supplement is made in the laboratory for use as medicine. Kidney, liver, yeast, broccoli, potatoes, and spinach are also good sources of this acid. Alpha-lipoic acid is used for diabetes, memory loss, liver disease, chronic fatigue, cataracts, eye disease, cancer, diseases of the blood vessels and the heart, ad Lyme disease.
• Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a great antioxidant. It is a water--soluble vitamin that aids in the repair and growth of tissue in all parts of the body. It helps the body produce collagen, a protein used to make tendons, cartilage, skin, blood vessels, and ligaments. It is also needed for healing wounds and repairing teeth and bones. As an antioxidant, Vitamin C prevents some of the damage caused by substances that damage DNA.
• Grapeseed Extract
Grapeseed Extract contains resveratrol, a compound that provides great antioxidant activity. There is strong evidence that this supplement is beneficial for various cardiovascular conditions. It may also help with eye disease related to diabetes and help reduce swelling caused by injury.
• L-Glutathione
L-Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant ad detoxifying compound that protects the body's cells from oxidative stress and free radicals and boosts the immune system. Low glutathione levels are linked to muscular degeneration, Alzheimer's and other age--related conditions. L-Glutathione's strong antioxidant properties make it ideal as a supplement for cases of lipomas and cancer tumors.
• N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-Acetyl Cysteine is an antioxidant which is quite popular for its ability to reduce oxidative stress and the negative effects associated with oxidation. It is also used to counteract carbon monoxide poisoning and acetaminophen, as well as chest pain, bile duct blockage in kids, and several other conditions. It plays a ubiquitous role in many of the body's defenses.
• Detox-Aid Advanced Formula
Detox-Aid Advanced formula assists in the body’s natural removal of ingested heavy metals and works synergistically with detoxifying compounds such as DMSA, EDTA, Chemet, and DMPS.
Today, many individuals are taking Kirkman labs antioxidant supplements as regular part of their daily routine.
Kirkman's Ultra Tested® products are tested for more than 950 environmental contaminants including, pesticides, insecticides, fungacides, herbacides, biocides, endocrine disruptors and other harmful chemicals. No other company in the world conducts purity testing to this degree.
We highly recommend these Kirkman supplements. For more information about antioxidant supplements, visit http://www.spectrum-supplements.com/antioxidants.html