List of Antioxidants

In this fast lifestyle, having a balanced diet and a proper workout routine are two things that keep you fit. Health experts have found out that having foods rich in antioxidants keep your immune system healthy. Nowadays, antioxidants are available in many forms - tablets, syrups and even health drinks. But do you know which antioxidants are necessary for your body. We give you a list of antioxidants below, but before that let's see what they are.

We all know that oxygen is a necessity for life and without it we wouldn't be able to survive for a minute. Oxygen regulates our metabolism, blood flow, heartbeat and produces energy. The production of energy triggers the production of some harmful compounds known as free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules which are dangerous and are responsible for a number of complications like cancer and various cardiovascular diseases. This is where antioxidants step in; antioxidants are a group of compounds that repair the damage that is caused by free radicals. With the repairing, they also destroy the radicals. So let's have a look at the antioxidants which protect us day and night.

Essential Antioxidants

Plants are constantly under attack by the harmful UV rays and pollution. Since they cannot protect themselves like we do, they produce strong antioxidants to protect them from cell damage and harmful bacteria. Antioxidants have many benefits, and having a proper intake can help us live a long and cheerful life.

Alpha-Carotene
The #1 spot is taken by alpha-carotene. Alpha-carotene is converted into vitamin A as and when required by the body. This antioxidant is very powerful and helps protect eyes, skin, liver and lungs from damage caused by free radicals. Alpha-carotene is found in cooked carrots and pumpkins. As a supplement, it's sold alone or mixed with carotenoid formulas.

Beta-carotene
A very well-known antioxidant, beta-carotene is converted by the body into vitamin A same like alpha-carotene. In the medical world, beta-carotene is known as a cancer preservative. Various health experts say that beta-carotene gives you a healthy immune system, prevents arteriosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes. It is found in bright-colored fruits and vegetables such as apricots, sweet potatoes cantaloupe, carrots, peaches, spinach, broccoli and mangoes. As a supplement it's sold separately.

Cryptoxanthin
This antioxidant is also converted into vitamin A by the body. Studies claim that women have a high level of cryptoxanthin in their blood then men and are better protected against cervical cancer. Smoking causes a reduction in the levels of cryptoxanthin. It's found in oranges, peaches, tangerines and papaya at a higher level. As a supplement it's often found in carotenoids.

Lutein
#4 on my list is not converted into vitamin A, but is an essential antioxidant which is useful for the protection of eyes. Free radicals are the main cause of blindness in old people and this condition is treated by lutein. Good lutein sources are green vegetables such as spinach and collard greens. Well those who don't like vegetables can also take it as a supplement. Doctor's consultation is necessary if a pregnant woman is taking lutein.

Lycopene
Lycopene is not converted into vitamin A and is considered as a stronger antioxidant than beta-carotene. Red color fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, watermelons have rich contents of lycopene. Some facts claim that men who eat pizza regularly have a less chance of getting prostate cancer because of the tomato sauce in the pizzas. Young people have more lypopene in their blood than elderly people. So people over 50, start eating tomatoes to reap the lycopene benefits.

Zeaxathin
This antioxidant protects your eyes from free radicals. It also destroys and prevents the growth of various tumor cells, indirectly preventing cancer. Zeaxathin is found in okra, spinach, beet greens, chicory leaves, swiss chard and watercress. So if you are not a big fan of these vegetables. You can take zeaxathin as a supplement.

Foods Rich in Antioxidants

Consuming foods high in antioxidants are essential for your overall well-being. Consumption of these foods with a good workout routine can help you lead a healthy and long life.

• Fruits like pineapple, plum, grapes, all types of berries, kiwi fruit and grape fruit.
• Vegetables like kale, chili pepper, parsley, artichoke, red cabbage, lemon, ginger, red beets and Brussels sprouts.
• Nuts and seeds like pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, groundnuts and sunflower seeds.
• Various types of cereals and spices are also foods rich in antioxidants.

List of Antioxidant Vitamins
Now that you know what are antioxidants and the foods that are rich in antioxidants. Let's know the names of some antioxidant vitamins.

• Vitamin A and Carotenoids
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Selenium
• Alpha-Lipopic Acid
• Coenzyme Q10

List of Antioxidant Supplements

Some people are not really interested in vegetables. They have their own preference when it comes to eating green vegetables and fruits. Don't worry you can get your daily dose of antioxidants in the form of supplements. Check out the best antioxidant supplements.

• Now Foods, DMG
• Now Foods, Coq
• Miracle Reds, 12 single serving packets
• Miracle Reds, 30 day supply
• Alive Power Active Juice Blend
• Miracle Reds powder
• Mangomi Concentrate
• AntiOx Cysteine Free
• Ola Loa Vitamin energy supplement

The golden age of antioxidants is here and people have many antioxidants supplements which can be included in the diet to have a healthy and long life.