Different Types of Antioxidants

Antioxidants can be classified according to their solubility, either soluble in fats or water. Both are required by the body to protect your cells. The lipid (fat) soluble antioxidants protect your cell membranes and some examples are vitamin A, E, Lipoic Acid, Astaxanthin. Water soluble antioxidants include vitamin C and resveratrol. Antioxidants produced by the body are:

Antioxidants produced by the body are:
Superoxide dismutase (SOD) can break down superoxide into hydrogen peroxide and oxygen, with the help of copper, zinc, manganese, and iron. It is found in almost all aerobic cells and extracellular fluids.

Catalase (CAT) works by converting hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, using iron and manganese cofactors. It finishes up the detoxification process started by SOD.

Glutathione peroxidase (GSHpx) and glutathione reductase are selenium-containing enzymes that help break down hydrogen peroxide and organic peroxides into alcohols and water. They are most abundant in your liver.

For optimal benefits you need a wide variety of antioxidants which should include food sources. Ideally your diet should include balanced, unprocessed foods, preferably organic, especially fruits and vegetables such as dark, leafy green vegetables and berry fruits.

With todays busy lifestyles, many people are unable to eat wholesome, organic foods. They simply do not have the time or energy to prepare balanced meals, thus missing out on essential nutrients which include important antioxidants. Antioxidant supplements are ideal to help replace these missing nutrients.

Some top antioxidants to help bring the body back into balance include:

R-fraction alpha lipoic acid is soluble in both water and fat. It can recycle both vitamin C and E. Supports cardiovascular health, glucose metabolism, improves mitochondrial function and support healthy ageing.

Ubiquinol – This powerful antioxidant supports energy levels and heart health. It is one of the strongest lipid-soluble antioxidants available. Ubiquinol is the antioxidant form of CoQ10, helping the body manage oxidative stress.

Curcumin – The curcumin complex is unique for its diverse benefits to human health. Produced from turmeric root, the yellow spice that flavours curried dishes, it is valued beyond culinary use. Curcumin is part of the curcuminoid complex and is the active ingredient that has the beneficial antioxidant activity.

Astaxanthin – A natural, red component of a fresh water plant, which has exceptionally strong antioxidant activity. It is 100 times stronger than vitamin E, more powerful than vitamin C

Carnosine – Carnosine is a naturally occurring dipeptide (Beta-Alanine-L-Histidine), concentrated in the brain and muscles. Carnosine helps neutralize free radicals of oxygen and nitrogen and can sequester or chelate potentially toxic metal atoms. Unfortunately its levels diminish with age. It has been shown to interfere with the glycation process thus helping to support longevity in our most vital organs.

PQQ – Mitochondria (cellular energy generators) are highly exposed to free radical activity, resulting in mitochondrial decay, a sign of ageing. PQQ protects against mitochondrial destruction and promotes renewed cellular function. PQQ is an essential nutrient supporting heart health, cognitive function and mitochondrial health. Healthy genes support healthy body weight, normal fat and sugar metabolism and youthful cell regeneration.

At the end of the day it is important to combine an antioxidant rich diet with a healthy lifestyle that includes supplements, exercise and enough sleep!

Also remember to decrease your sugar.