As the body's cells function, they produce energy, but also waste products called free radicals. The immune system uses them to fight certain infections, but if they are present in too large a quantity, free radicals contribute to generating oxidative stress that can trigger cardiovascular diseases, cancers and impact the ageing of the body's cells. Antioxidants help to regulate them and maintain the balance necessary for a healthy body! Here are 5 examples of antioxidants and their benefits, naturally present in our food.
Vitamin C
Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is one of the best-known antioxidants and has many virtues. Famous for stimulating the immune system, according to the EFSA, it is also involved in the formation of collagen, which is essential for the proper functioning of blood vessels, bones, teeth and gums, as well as skin and cartilage in general. Vitamin C also facilitates the absorption of iron by the body and helps to ensure the proper functioning of the nervous system, mental functions and the immune system. It is often sold in the form of food supplements to boost energy and combat fatigue. However, several fruits contain large quantities of it, the most concentrated being blackcurrants. It is also found in red peppers, kiwi fruit, strawberries, oranges, broccoli and pineapple. To ensure the best vitamin C content in fruit and vegetables, it is best to eat them fresh, as they can lose up to half their vitamin C concentration in just 24 hours.
Vitamin E
Another of the most effective antioxidants is vitamin E, which is naturally present in oil seeds and vegetable oils. Its most useful active substance for the human body, alpha-tocopherol, fights against oxidative stress and cellular ageing of the skin and organs. This molecule also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis, and ensure good blood circulation. In its natural state, vitamin E appears as an oily yellow liquid and is very present in nuts such as almonds and hazelnuts, but also in sunflower seeds, blackcurrants, avocados and peanut butter.
Zinc
Less well known than the above, zinc is also an excellent antioxidant. It is an essential trace element for the body, in which it plays a decisive role. Zinc is necessary for growth, but also for the renewal of the skin and hair. Like vitamin C, it also contributes to the maintenance of bones, skin and nails, but also to the proper functioning of intellectual capacities, the metabolism of carbohydrates, fatty acids and vitamin A. It also helps maintain good vision and contributes to fertility. Zinc is mainly found in animal cells, with oysters being the most naturally concentrated food. Offal, red meat and eggs also contain large quantities.
Selenium
Selenium is another antioxidant with numerous benefits: it is involved in the proper functioning of the immune system, the nervous system and the thyroid gland, but also in the production of spermatozoa in men. In the same way as zinc, it also has an impact on the development of hair and nails. In its natural state, it is mainly found in fish such as tuna and cod. Offal, such as pork kidneys and duck liver, also have a high selenium content. On the plant side, Brazil nuts and chickpeas are the most concentrated.
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is one of the most effective antioxidants for protecting the body against free radicals. It occurs as a red pigment in algae, which is why it is found in large quantities in fish and seafood such as salmon and shrimp. This element has the special ability to reach every part of the body's cells and can even penetrate the blood-brain barrier to protect the brain. It is therefore a formidable ally for the human body, with antioxidant and inflammatory properties. According to a Swedish study, this element also improves muscle recovery and endurance.
To strengthen your immune system, consuming antioxidants is a major asset. Ecosystem Laboratoire offers you a whole range of food supplements rich in antioxidants.
