“Antioxidants” is one of those buzzwords that is often seen, but not fully understood by many people. Chances are you’ve come across ads proclaiming their products to be “antioxidant-rich” or “rich in antioxidants.” Most people are vaguely aware that antioxidants are somehow good for you, but how exactly, and what do they do? If you are one of those people, read on to learn more about these super compounds that are extremely beneficial to your health:
What are Antioxidants?
So we know that they are good for you, but what exactly are mineral antioxidant sunscreen SPF 50+? Simply put, they are “compounds found in food that stop or delay damage to the cells,” according to Lauri Wright, Ph.D., R.D., L.D., assistant professor of nutrition at the University of South Florida. Plant-based foods and healthy and beauty products, such as the organic beauty products by Well Within Beauty, are packed with antioxidants that fight against harmful free radicals.
While the term “antioxidants” may be a little vague or abstract for you, you are almost certainly familiar with Vitamins C, Vitamin E and beta-carotene. You may have also heard of the mineral selenium and manganese, as well as flavonoids, phenols, polyphenols, and phytoestrogens. These are all examples of common and well-known antioxidants.
Where are Antioxidants Found?
As mentioned above, plant-based foods are the main source of antioxidants, but our bodies also produce them. They can also be found in plant-based skincare or beauty products, such as Well Within Beauty’s antioxidant moisturizer.
Green tea is very rich in antioxidants and is a popular ingredient in many skincare products targeted at boosting your skin’s strength and overall health. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and goji berries are also rich in antioxidants, and you might be surprised to learn that dark chocolate is an excellent source of antioxidants as well. Other antioxidant-rich foods include dark leafy greens like kale and spinach, and artichokes and pecans.
What are the Benefits of Antioxidants?
Antioxidants fight against the free radicals that our bodies produce as they process food, sunlight and toxins such as alcohol, smoke and pollution. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can attach themselves to our cells and damage them. Worse, they can accumulate and promote oxidative stress, which raises the risk of heart disease, certain types of cancers, diabetes and other chronic conditions.
Antioxidants work by either preventing the formation of free radicals, or by neutralizing them so they don’t cause any damage. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants helps your body fight against free radicals more effectively, drastically reducing your risk of getting these chronic diseases. Using skincare products that are rich in antioxidants helps renew and repair your skin, and protects it from future damage, so you can enjoy a healthier, more youthful looking complexion for longer.
The bottom line is that antioxidants are necessary to protect our bodies and skin from damage and disease. Increase your intake of antioxidant-rich foods and consider adding antioxidant-rich products to your skincare routine to enjoy better overall health, and a clearer, more radiant complexion.
