Study Shows Supplements Lack Proper Antioxidants

A recent article fro the Mayo clinic health letter states that study conclude that there is minimal benefits when trying to obtain antioxidants from dietary supplements. The report goes on to say that the optimal way in receiving a healthy dose of antioxidants is to eat foods that are rich with in it. Some of these foods include:

vitamins E and C

carotene

lycopene

lutein

Many other other factors could possibly aid in preventing diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease and macular degeneration. Antioxidants are thought to help because they can neutralize free radicals, which are toxic byproducts of natural cell metabolism.The process of the body producing antioxidants is not very efficient and usually declines with the onset of age.

Tests reveal that those who eat antioxidant rich foods get many health benefits. Foods, rather than supplements, may boost antioxidant levels because foods contain an unmatchable array of antioxidant substances.

Dietary supplements are limited in offering the maximum benefits of antioxidants because they only come maybe one or two out of the multitude of antioxidants known. This can be troubling because science has not determined which ones are responsible for the health benefits. Some of the known healthy antioxidants are:

Berry Group: Acai Berry, raspberries, strawberries, cranberries, blueberries

Bean Family: Tiny red beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, black beans

Fruit Family: Apples, avocados, cherries, pears ( all types)

Vegetables: Artichokes, spinach, red cabbage, potatoes, broccoli

Beverages: Green tea, coffee, red wine and many fruit juices

Nuts: Walnuts, pistachios, pecans, hazelnuts and almonds

Herbs: Ground cloves, cinnamon or ginger, dried oregano leaf and turmeric powder

Grains: Oat-based products

Desserts: Dark chocolates

Taking too many antioxidants through supplements such as vitamin c can cause more damage than good according to a recent study.

This is not true in many of the foods that have higher antioxidants and offer many other health benefits such as high fiber, protein and saturated fats.

Currently, the government give no guidelines on which antioxidants to consume as well as how many to take as part of their daily diet.

It is encouraged for the time being to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables that have a high concentration of amino acids like acai berry.