Antioxidants and their measurement through scanning

According to the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, carotenoids are the best biomarkers for fruit and vegetable intake.

Antioxidants are compounds found naturally in many foods or produced by our bodies. They protect our cells from the destructive effects caused by free radicals. Carotenoids are some of the most common antioxidants found in our diet.

They play an important role in the antioxidant system and function as part of the body’s first line of defense.

Knowing your antioxidant level can help you improve your diet and lifestyle to tailor some vitamin supplements to your outcome to help you slow down aging.

Antioxidants are what allow us to fight free radicals, which cause aging by oxidizing our cells.

The antioxidants present in vegetables are wide and varied, while those present in meat are less numerous. Coffee, green tea and dark chocolate are also excellent sources of antioxidants. Finally, antioxidants are also used as additives in processed and natural foods, extending the shelf life of these foods.

The antioxidants found in foods can be divided into water-soluble (water-soluble) and fat-soluble (fat-soluble) antioxidants.

These are the main antioxidants from food:

– Vitamin C: main water-soluble antioxidant.
– Vitamin E: main fat-soluble antioxidant.
– Flavonoids: group of antioxidants of vegetable origin.

Excessive consumption of antioxidants can be toxic and even boost oxidative stress. Some studies have shown the ineffectiveness of high levels of antioxidants and have claimed that antioxidant-rich foods reduce oxidative stress more than antioxidant supplements.

That said, it can be concluded that a moderate and appropriate intake of antioxidants is the best option to take advantage of the benefits of these substances. If you want to ensure an adequate level of antioxidants, consume more fruits and vegetables rather than resorting to supplements.

How can we know our antioxidant level?