What are ANTIOXIDANTS?

What are antioxidants exactly? Our bodies have cells called mitochondria, which function like miniature power plants producing energy. When these cells are healthy, they function without generating much waste (or oxidants). As the mitochondria age and are mismanaged through inactivity, they become less efficient and produce oxidants. These oxidants promote aging. To counter this aging effect, the body produces antioxidants but if you don't have enough antioxidants in your bloodstream (through production or diet supplementation) there is a negative affect on your body and you begin a process of aging poorly.

Get Active: It is believed that most of the dramatic benefits we get from exercise can be traced to improvement in the mitochondria. Mitochondrial function naturally declines with age, but exercise can reverse that decline.

Make sure you have a dietary source of antioxidants:
• Vitamin C - Sources include citrus fruits, green peppers, broccoli, green leafy vegetables, strawberries, raw cabbage and potatoes.
• Vitamin E - Sources include wheat germ, nuts, seeds, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, vegetable oil and fish-liver oil.
• Beta-carotene - Carrots, squash, broccoli, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, kale, collards, cantaloupe, peaches and apricots.
• Selenium - Good food sources include fish, shellfish, red meat, grains, eggs, chicken and garlic.