Antioxidants. It’s likely you’ve heard of them but what are they, and do we really need them? Since it's helpful to understand free radicals first, let's start there.
What are free radicals?
Free radicals are atoms with an unpaired electron and are considered “unstable” atoms. To become more stable, they take electrons from other atoms and cause more damage through a process called oxidation.
Free radicals are atoms with an unpaired electron and are considered “unstable” atoms. To become more stable, they take electrons from other atoms and cause more damage through a process called oxidation.
While free radicals are produced naturally in the body and are needed, lifestyle factors like the food we eat, medications we take, the air we breathe, the water we drink, personal care and cleaning products we use, can all accelerate the production of free radicals. As the body ages, it loses its ability to fight the effects of free radicals. This results in more free radicals, more oxidative stress, and more damage to cells, which leads to degenerative processes and illness, as well as “normal” aging.
What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals. They are sometimes called “free radical scavengers” as they help to release free radicals from the body. There are thought to be hundreds of substances that can act as antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, E, beta-carotene, catechins, polyphenols, and phytoestrogens.
PomegranatesThe best sources of antioxidants are plant-based foods, especially fruits and vegetables. Each has its own role and can synergistically work with others. Foods that are particularly high in antioxidants are often referred to as a “superfood”.Whole Foods Antioxidants
Taking an antioxidant supplement in a pill form can be helpful, but the body will always use food sources more efficiently. As indicated in this Free Radicals, Antioxidants in Disease and Health study1, antioxidants from our diet play an important role in helping neutralize oxidative stress.
Taking an antioxidant supplement in a pill form can be helpful, but the body will always use food sources more efficiently. As indicated in this Free Radicals, Antioxidants in Disease and Health study1, antioxidants from our diet play an important role in helping neutralize oxidative stress.
It is most beneficial to consume large amounts of whole foods like fruits and vegetables. It is important to eat 5-10 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. 
Wolfberries
WolfberriesNingxia Wolfberries have the highest antioxidants, followed by pomegranates and blueberries. Blackberries, strawberries, spinach, brussel sprouts, beets, and oranges follow closely behind blueberries.
Which would you choose - carrots or juice?
- I include an apple in my morning smoothie, eat berries often, and have lots of veggies every day. Even with a focus, it’s tough to eat as recommended so I drink wolfberry juice daily.
- The antioxidant value of drinking just ONE OUNCE of wolfberry juice equivalent to eating FOUR POUNDS of carrots. As much as I like carrots, I'll pass! 😂
🍎 How many servings of fruits and veggies are you able to eat daily?
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