DR. WALKER

Importance of Antioxidants

What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants are natural substances that are thought to reduce the risk of cellular damage. Specifically, they are known to protect cells against free radical damage. Free radicals are chemicals that are associated with cellular and genetic damaging. Long-standing free radicals in the body are associated with higher oxidative stress, which is a common in many chronic diseases, to include heart disease, cancer, arthritis, and stroke. Because of their ability to counteract free radicals, they are sometimes termed “free radical scavenger.”

What are the different types of antioxidants?

Vitamins, A, C, E, selenium, manganese, and beta carotene are all examples of antioxidants that are taken into the body. Other sources include flavonoids, polyphenols, and phytonutrients, catechins, flavones, which are all found in plant-based foods.
Vitamin A. Vitamin A has antioxidant properties that helps to protect cells from free-radical damage. Free radicals are major factor in heart disease, and cancer. Vitamin A has the crucial role in enhancing the body’s immune functions.
Foods high in vitamin A include: Carrots, spinach, broccoli, wild caught seafood (salmon, herring), fish oil, eggs, and sweet potatoes. Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that also helps protect the cells from free radical damage. These antioxidants help to prevent damage to cells and tissues, and can lower the chance of heart disease.

Foods high in vitamin C include: Parsley, mustard spinach, kale, broccoli, brussels sprouts, lemons, and strawberries.
Vitamin E. This is a great antioxidant that also functions as an anti-inflammatory. Some studies suggest that there may be an association between Alzheimer’s and low levels of vitamin E. Some foods high in vitamin E would include olive oil, almonds, and leafy green vegetables.
Beta carotene. This is a well-known carotenoid, accounts for the brilliant colors found in several fruits and vegetables. Beta Carotene is a natural antioxidant which protects the body from free radical. Free radicals can damage cells through a process called oxidation. Carotenoids also serves as a precursor to vitamin A.
Foods high in beta carotene include: Asparagus, kale, broccoli, spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes, mustard, greens, and turnips.
Lycopene. This is a naturally existing carotenoid with anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a powerful antioxidant which helps protect cells from damage. Lycopene with its antioxidant properties have been used to protect against malignancies and high blood pressure. In one study, people utilizing lycopene had a reduction in the development of prostate cancer, as well as prostate cancer recurrence.
Foods high in lycopene include: Asparagus, red cabbage, strawberries, basil, parsley, chili powder, and red cabbage.
Selenium. Selenium is an essential trace element that helps to lower oxidative stress, and as a result reduces inflammation and increases immunity. Selenium helps to increase the level of glutathione peroxidase. Glutathione peroxidase is a well-known selenoprotein which is a powerful antioxidant, which protects cell from free radical damage such as reactive oxygen species. Foods high in selenium include: Brazil nuts, sardines, oysters, halibut, shrimp, salmon, crab, mushroom, spinach, and green bananas.

How to increase antioxidant levels?

Vegetables. Artichokes for example is a great source of fiber and antioxidants. Chlorogenic acid is the type of antioxidant in artichokes that is thought to reduce risk for certain cancers and also decrease risk for diabetes. Others include kale or, red cabbage, beets, shiitake mushrooms and spinach.
Fruits. Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, and is full of vitamins and minerals to include potassium, copper, vitamin E and vitamin C. Carotenoids is one of the main compounds in avocados that is important in health. Other antioxidants in avocados are thought to be protective against inflammation and malignancy. Antioxidants in avocados are also associated with reduce risk for cardiovascular disease.
Spices. Turmeric contains curcumin which functions as an antioxidant as well as an anti-inflammatory. Curcumin is actually the component that gives turmeric its yellowish color. Other spices include oregano, ginger, and cinnamon which are all rich with antioxidants.
Nuts. Nuts have several impressive health benefits and high in antioxidants. Polyphenols in nuts, are known to fight against oxidative stress by the reducing the free radicals. They are usually readily available and can be eaten on their own or added to different foods. Some of these healthy nuts includes almonds, hazelnuts, pine nuts, macadamia nuts, pistachios, and walnuts.
Remember that peanuts and cashews are not actually nuts. Additionally, these are high in lectins and associated with leaky gut syndrome.
Teas. Catechins and tannins are the antioxidants found in tea that are known to reduce risk of malignancy, enhancing immune system, and improved cardiovascular health.
Green tea is full of polyphenols and has a lower caffeine profile than black tea.
Matcha tea has a vibrant green color and is the powdered, pulverized green tea leaves. Matcha tea has an earthy flavor with sweet undertones.
Dark chocolate. This has more cacao and more antioxidants than regular chocolate. These antioxidants have are linked to decreased inflammation and overall reduced risk for coronary heart disease.
Berries. Anthocyanins accounts for most of the antioxidants in blueberries. This level increases as the berry ripens. Other berries include blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and goji berries.

How to use Moringa?

Moringa should not be used daily, unless treating a specific ailment. A reasonable starting point for an average adult is 1 to 2 grams each day, split between breakfast time and dinner. Additionally, consider utilizing this supplement only once or twice for the first week to first see how you feel. Remember to discuss with your provider prior to starting the supplement.
Moringa tea. The tea is naturally caffeine-free and can be made by steeping the moringa leaves in pure hot water. It can also be made using moringa leaf powder or the tea bags. The moringa tea can be consumed at any time of the day.
Moringa seeds. These are commonly used for managing blood sugar levels. This could also be used as a sleep aid.
Moringa oil. This is often used for hair growth and for fighting dandruff. Also used to speed up the healing of cuts / bruises, moisturizing, and improving skin health.
Moringa dried powder. Moringa powder can be mixed in hot water or added to drinks and food, smoothies, soups, and broths. Moringa powder is also effective against a wide range of bacteria and fungi, including those that cause gastric ulcers and gastric cancer.

Does Moringa interact with other medications?

Moringa has some interaction with medication, like rifampin and other diabetic medication, so be certain to discuss with your provider prior to starting the supplement.