Antioxidants
Antioxidants are chemical compounds that can be commonly found in plant-based foods; some can be produced by human body. They curb damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals.
Free radicals are molecules with missing electrons, thus making them unstable and highly reactive. Through a process call oxidation, they react and damage other cells, turning them into newly formed free radicals. This process then repeats to form a chain reaction.
We are constantly exposed to free radicals! Our body produces free radicals through processes such as metabolism, however we are a lot more exposed to free radicals from our surrounding environment. Common sources of free radicals include UV rays, chemicals in pesticides and cleaning agents, pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke, alcohol, high sugar intake, blue light and stress. Excessive exposure to free radicals (termed as oxidative stress) can damage our cells and DNA, sparking health issues such as degenerative diseases, heart diseases, premature ageing, and even cancer.
The good news is that antioxidants are electron donors. By donating its electrons to free radical, this free radical is stabilised and stop causing further damages. Although our body can produce antioxidants such as glutathione, the amount might not be sufficient to counteract the amount of free radicals we are exposed to on a daily basis. Fresh fruits, vegetables and wholegrains are other sources of antioxidants that we can turn to. Ideally, we should be consuming two servings of fruits, two servings of vegetables and plenty of wholegrains from staples such as wholemeal or multigrain bread, brown rice and wholewheat noodles or crackers. However, due to our busy and modern lifestyle with most meals eaten outside, it is often very challenging for us to achieve the recommended intake of these antioxidant-rich foods.
Share
Related Products
You have products with this ingredient
Usual
VND 9440000
₫9,440,000
Stay Inspired with Health Trends
28 Feb 2025
Women's Wellness by the Decade: An International Women's Day Focus
International Women’s Day falls on 8 March and this is a special day to celebrate all strong, unique, capable, and talented women around the world!
Every woman wants to age gracefully – from your 20s to 50s and beyond. There are steps you can take during each phase of life to keep you well and healthy. This is your guide to women’s wellness through the decades.
04 Feb 2025
How Burned Out are You?
“Leave it to me, I can handle this!” - This is what most would say, but how much one can manage before it’s too much?
03 Nov 2024
Is The Sunshine Vitamin Really Enough?
“Sunshine is all you need for your daily dose of Vitamin D”, or is it?
13 Oct 2023
Make No Bones About It
Do you know? Bones need more than just calcium to stay strong.
08 Jul 2023
Glycation And How It Ages Our Skin
Love sweet treats? Better think twice before popping them in your mouth. Glycation occurs when there are excess sugars forming bonds with your body’s proteins and fats, which results in advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that may be harmful to health and skin. Read to find out more!