Antioxidants have become a topic of great interest in a world where health and wellness are the top priorities. These compounds, which we can find in a variety of foods and supplements, are acclaimed for their ability to fight the effects of aging and improve overall health.
But what exactly are antioxidants? How do they work in our bodies? And what kind of benefits do they offer? Find out about it thanks to this post by Arandovo in which we’ll tell you everything you need to know about them, from their definition and function to their multiple health benefits and role in skin care.
¿What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are natural or synthetic compounds that help protect our cells against damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that our body produces as a result of normal metabolic processes or due to exposure to external factors such as pollution, tobacco, solar radiation and an unhealthy diet.
These unstable molecules can damage cells, which can contribute to the development of chronic diseases in the long term such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and premature aging. This is where antioxidants come in. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants help prevent or reduce cellular damage, which can improve overall health and well-being.
They can be found in a variety of foods; especially fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, although they can also be found in the form of supplements.
What is the function of antioxidants?
Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting our body. Their main function is to fight oxidative stress, an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to counteract their harmful effects.
Cellular protection
Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative damage, which is important for maintaining the integrity and functionality of tissues and organs. This is particularly important when it comes to organs that are in direct contact with oxygen, such as the lungs, heart, and skin.
Disease prevention
Numerous researches have shown that antioxidants can help prevent a variety of chronic diseases. For example, it has been observed that a diet rich in antioxidants is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, certain types of cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Delayed aging
Oxidative damage is one of the main causes of cellular aging. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants can help delay the aging process, both internally (organ aging) and externally (skin aging).
Antioxidants and the skin
The skin is the largest organ of the body and is constantly exposed to factors that can generate free radicals, such as UV radiation from the sun and environmental pollution. Therefore, antioxidants play a key role in maintaining the health and appearance of the skin.
Protection against sun damage
One of the greatest benefits of antioxidants when it comes to the skin is their ability to protect it against sun damage. Sun exposure, also known as photoaging, is a major cause of premature aging. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E can help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure, reducing the risk of wrinkles, sunspots and other signs of aging.
Skin repair
Antioxidants can also help repair damaged skin. For example, resveratrol, an antioxidant found in grapes and red wine, has been shown to have regenerative properties that can help repair skin after exposure to stressors.
Improved skin tone and brightness
Antioxidants can contribute to more radiant, even skin. Vitamin C, for example, is known for its ability to brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even skin tone.
Antioxidant benefits
Antioxidants offer a wide range of health benefits as detailed below:
Chronic disease prevention
Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart diseases and diabetes.
Swelling reduction
Many antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce chronic inflammation, related to diseases such as arthritis and cardiovascular diseases as well.
Immunological system protection
Antioxidants such as vitamin C and zinc are essential for the proper functioning of the immunological system, helping to protect the body against infections and diseases.
Improved eye health
Antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin are key to maintaining good eye health and can prevent diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Delayed aging
Antioxidants fight oxidative stress, which is a key factor in cellular aging, helping to maintain a youthful and healthy appearance.
Skin protection
Antioxidants protect the skin from damage caused by sun exposure and pollution, improving its elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots.
Cardiovascular health support
They help improve blood circulation, lower blood pressure and prevent cholesterol oxidation, which reduces the risk of heart diseases.
Mental health improvement
Antioxidants can protect the brain from oxidative stress, which could reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Muscle recovery support
Antioxidants help reduce inflammation and cellular damage after intense exercise sessions, accelerating muscle recovery.
Longevity promotion
By fighting cellular damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases, antioxidants can contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Natural antioxidants
Antioxidants are found abundantly around nature, mainly in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and some types of fish. The best-known natural antioxidants include:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the best known and most effective antioxidants. It dissolves in water and is transported through the body tissues, but it is not stored in large quantities, so it becomes necessary to consume it regularly through the diet. You can find it in citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruit), strawberries, kiwi, broccoli…
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant. It helps protect cells against oxidative damage and is essential for skin health, as well as strengthening the immunological system. The main sources are almonds, hazelnuts, olive oil, spinach…
Beta-carotene
Beta-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A and is known for its role in eye health. It is also a strong antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and protects cells from damage. You can find it in carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, spinach…
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are a diverse group of plant compounds that possess strong antioxidant properties. They help reduce inflammation and protect against cellular damage. You can find them in green tea, citrus fruits, dark chocolate, onions…
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is an antioxidant known for its anti-aging effects and its ability to improve cardiovascular health. It is found in certain foods and beverages such as red grapes, cocoa, blackberries, red wine…
Natural dietary supplements
In addition to finding antioxidants in everyday foods such as fruits and vegetables, natural dietary supplements can also be added to the daily diet.
These supplements are designed to complement the diet and provide essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds, which may not be present in sufficient quantities within the daily diet.
To this end, Arandovo has developed MKARE®️, a 100% natural functional ingredient based on eggshell membrane. Egg membrane is one of the natural dietary supplements par excellence thanks to its high content of proteins, bioactive compounds, collagen, hyaluronic acid, elastin, lysozyme, chondroitin sulfate and over 400 proteins that help keep your body and life healthy.
Thus, antioxidants are essential to protect our body from oxidative damage, prevent chronic diseases, and maintain a healthy skin and body. Incorporating both antioxidant-rich foods into your daily diet as well as dietary supplements such as MKARE®️, is one of the best ways to promote long-term health and wellness.
If you want to know more about how MKARE®️ can help you in your daily life or need more information, check out our website now or get in touch with us, one of our specialists will solve all your doubts.
