What are these Antioxidants?

The health and science news is buzzing about antioxidants and just how important they are for us. But what are antioxidants and just what makes them so valuable? Is this just another fad to get consumers to cash in on the latest hype or is this really something to pay attention to? We decided to take on the challenge to discover the truth behind the buzz and enlighten you in the process

Antioxidants are naturally found in basically every edible item that God made when the earth was formed: fruits, vegetables, grains, spices, nuts and pulses. Antioxidants wage a powerful and vengeful warfare against the free radicals in your body, destroying them and consequently releasing a sort of magical healing juice – the proverbial "fountain of youth".

The elixir you have been looking for!

Here is a little experiment that will convince you that we are the next generation of awesome scientists.

How often has the apple you just sliced turned brown? This browning process is caused free radicals. Simply rub lemon juice on an apple slice. The antioxidant loaded juice stops the apple slice from turning brown. You see, antioxidants work by slowing down or preventing the oxidation process!

This same process takes place in your body. Free radicals can lead to cell dysfunction and the onset of problems like heart disease and diabetes. Antioxidant work in your body very much the same way they protect the apple slice.

How to get more Antioxidants in my diet?

You can eat a diet that is rich in antioxidants by following some smart and simple strategies:

• Serve colourful vegetables. Tempt hungry kids (and adults too) by serving a tray of veggies and dip whenever they are hungriest.

• Go for whole grains. Buy whole grain cereals, breads, whole wheat pasta, brown rice and barley.

• Fill up on vegetables and fruit. Try to fill half your plate with vegetables and or fruits at each meal. Have a fruit or vegetable with each snack too.

• Enjoy a small handful of nuts (60 ml or 1/4 cup) in salads, over cereal or yogurt.

• Choose the whole fruit over the juice. Often the best health benefits come from the edible skin or peel. (Remember to wash it!).

We can also control the level of free radicals we are exposed to by avoiding smoking, harmful chemicals in our food, and other environmental hazards like UV radiation and pollution. But we cannot completely escape either free radicals or their effects. We would be immortal if we could. That will not be nice.