Importance of diets rich in antioxidants

An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules.

Foods high in antioxidants

Fruits, vegetables, bread, cereals, legumes, cacao, nuts and olive oil.

They are the most effective natural products to prevent the deterioration and the effects of the oxidation of the cells by the harmful substances present in the environment.

This phenomenon occurs constantly in the human body and is at the origin of processes such as premature aging of the skin or degenerative diseases like cancer.

Those responsible for oxidation are a group of chemical elements called 'free radicals'.

Free radicals are highly aggressive molecules that travel through the body causing chemical reactions, which deteriorate cell membranes, causing different health disorders.

Antioxidant food benefits

In adults, in addition to fruits, vegetables, and vegetables, tea and wine help the necessary supply of antioxidants.

Diets rich in antioxidants are not only necessary in adulthood, as some medical studies show that children who have consumed them have a better health when they reach adulthood.

It is advised that the contribution of antioxidants is at least 5 servings a day of fruits and vegetables.

This represents almost 55 percent of the recommended consumption of these substances, bread, potatoes, cereals, and legumes, would represent 26 percent.

Include cocoa as an important food in the infant and young diet, as it is rich in flavonoids, and combined with milk, contributes 16 percent more antioxidants. Olive oil and nuts close this scheme.

Several studies have shown that cocoa and tea contain a certain type of antioxidants, polyphenols, exerting a protective effect on vascular function and neutralize the action of free radicals, which cause disease and aging.

 

Conclusion

• Antioxidants that block the harmful effects of the agents that cause aging.
• They are important for preventing cardiovascular diseases, the development of tumors or the diminution of alterations in the nervous system.
• They serve as reinforcement of the immune system.