nutrition facts

An antioxidant is a chemical that reduces the rate of particular oxidation reactions in a specific context
where oxidation reactions are chemical reactions that involve the transfer of electrons from a substance to an oxidising agent.

Antioxidants are particularly important in the context of organic chemistry and biology: all living cells contain complex systems of antioxidant chemicals and/or enzymes to prevent chemical damage to the cells' components by oxidation. The importance and complexity of antioxidants in biology is reflected in a medical literature of more than 142
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scholarly articles.

A diet containing antioxidants from plants are required for good health since plants are an important source of organic antioxidant chemicals. Antioxidants are widely used as ingredients in dietary supplements that are used for health purposes such as preventing cancer and heart disease. However
while many studies have suggested benefits for antioxidant supplements
several large clinical trials have failed to clearly demonstrate a benefit for the formulations tested
and excess supplementation may be harmful.

Antioxidants are chemicals that reduce oxidative damage to cells and biochemicals. Researchers have found high correlation between oxidative damage and the occurrence of disease. For example
LDL oxidation is associated with cardiovascular disease. The process leading to atherogenesis
artherosclerosis
and cardiovascular disease is complex
involving multiple chemical pathways and networks
but the precursor is LDL oxidation by free radicals
resulting in inflammation and formation of plaques.

Research suggests that consumption of antioxidant-rich foods reduces damage to cells and biochemicals from free radicals. This may slow down
prevent
or even reverse certain diseases that result from cellular damage
and perhaps even slow down the natural aging process.

Since the discovery of vitamins
it has been recognized that antioxidants in the diet are essential for healthful lives. More recently
a large body of evidence has accumulated that suggests supplementation of the diet with various kinds of antioxidants can improve health and extend life.

Many nutraceutical and health food companies now sell forms of antioxidants as dietary supplement. These supplements may include specific antioxidant chemicals
like resveratrol (from grape seeds)
combinations of antioxidants
like the "ACES" products that contain beta carotene (provitamin A)
vitamin C
vitamin E and Selenium
or specialty herbs that are known to contain antioxidants such as green tea and jiaogulan.

Disclaimer
The information presented here should not be interpreted as medical advice. If you need more information about Antioxidants
please consult your physician or a qualified specialist.

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