Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant- both on its own and as a "recycler" of vitamin E and vitamin C. It can restore these vitamins' antioxidant properties after neutralizing free radicals. ALA also stimu­lates the body's glutathione production and aids in the absorption of coenzyme Q10, both important antioxidants. Because ALA is soluble in both water and fat, it can move into all parts of cells to deactivate free radicals. 

Supplemental ALA has been used for almost three decades in Europe to treat peripheral nerve degeneration and to help control blood sugar levels in people with dia­betes. It also helps to detoxify the liver of metal pollutants, block cataract formation, protect nerve tissues against ox­idative stress, and reduce blood cholesterol levels. Accord­ing to Lester Packer, Ph.D., Professor of Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of California-Berkeley and a lead­ing antioxidant researcher, ALA could play an important role in the prevention and treatment of chronic degenerative diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. ALA is also known as a metabolic antioxidant because cells cannot use sugar to produce energy without it. The body does not produce large amounts of ALA, and since it is found primarily in only a few foods, including spinach, broccoli, and organ meats, supplementation may be necessary.

Bilberry 

The herb bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), a European relative of the American blueberry, contains natural antioxidants that keep capillary walls strong and flexible. They also help to maintain the flexibility of the walls of red blood cells and allow them to pass through the capillaries better. Bilberry contains anthocyanidins, phytochemicals that help to lower blood pressure, inhibit clot formation, and enhance blood supply to the nervous system. Studies indicate that antho­cyanidins can provide up to fifty times the antioxidant pro­tection of vitamin E and ten times the protection of vitamin C. In addition, this herb protects the eyes and may enhance vision; supports and strengthens collagen structures; in­hibits the growth of bacteria; acts as an anti-inflammatory; and has anti-aging and anti-carcinogenic effects. Tests have shown that the compound glucoquinine, found in bilberry leaves, helps to lower blood sugar levels.

Burdock

Researchers at the Chia Nan College of Pharmacy and Science in Taiwan tested the herb burdock (Arctium Zappa) for its antioxidant properties. They found that burdock is a powerful antioxidant capable of scavenging hydrogen per­oxide and superoxide radicals. It also showed a marked scavenging effect against hydroxyl radicals. The study also showed that burdock and vitamin E quench more free radicals when used in combination. Burdock also protects against cancer by helping to control cell mutation. 

Carotenoids

The carotenoids are a class of compounds related to vita­min A. Sometimes, they can be precursors of vitamin A; some act as antioxidants or have other important func­tions. The best-known subclass of carotenoids is a group called the carotenes, of which beta-carotene is the most widely known. Also included in this group are alpha-and gamma­carotene and lycopene. When food or supplements con­taining beta-carotene are consumed, the beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the liver. According to recent reports, beta-carotene can aid in cancer prevention by scavenging or neutralizing free radicals. Other types of carotenoids that have been identified are the xanthophylls (including beta-cryptoxanthin, canthaxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin), the limonoids (including limonene) and the phytosterols (including perillyl alcohol). Science has not yet discovered all of the carotenoids, although one source documents 563 different carotenoids identified. Com­binations of carotenoids are more ben­eficial than individual carotenoids.

Coenzyme Q10 

Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that is structurally similar to vitamin E. It plays a crucial role in the generation of cel­lular energy, is a significant immunologic stimulant, in­creases circulation, has anti-aging effects, and is beneficial for the cardiovascular system. Also known as ubiquinone (from quinone, a type of coenzyme, and ubiquitous because it exists everywhere in the body), coenzyme Q10 is found in the highest concentrations in the heart, followed by the liver, kidney, spleen, and pancreas. Within the mitochondria, the cells' energy-production centers, coenzyme Q10, helps to metabolize fats and carbohydrates. It also helps to maintain the flexibility of cell membranes. 

In Japan, coenzyme Q10 has been approved for use in treating congestive heart failure. Various research re­ports suggest that coenzyme Q10 may also be beneficial in treating cancer, AIDS, muscular dystrophy, allergies, gas­tric ulcers, myopathy, periodontal disease, diabetes, and deafness.

Curcumin (Turmeric)

The phytochemical curcumin is found in the spice turmeric and has antioxidant properties that prevent the formation of and neutralize existing free radicals. It stops precancerous changes within DNA and interferes with enzymes neces­sary for cancer progression. Curcumin stops the oxidation of cholesterol, thus protecting against the formation of plaque in the arteries. In a study of chronic smokers, those who took curcumin excreted a substantially lower level of mutagens (substances that induce cells to mutate) in their urine, a reflection of how well the body is dealing with these cancer-causing substances. Curcumin also blocks toxic compounds from reaching or reacting with body tis­sues and may prevent cataracts. 

Curcumin should not be taken by anyone with bil­iary tract obstruction or anticoagulants, as cur­cumin stimulates bile secretion and acts as a blood-thinner.

Flavonoids

Flavonoids are especially potent antioxidants and metal chelators. They are chemical compounds that plants pro­duce to protect themselves from parasites, bacteria, and cell injury. More than 4,000 chemically unique flavonoids are known; they occur in fruits, vegetables, spices, seeds, nuts, flowers, and bark. Wine (particularly red wine), apples, blueberries, bilberries, onions, soy products, and tea are some of the best food sources of flavonoids. Certain flavonoids in fruits and vegetables have much greater an­tioxidant activity than vitamins C and E or beta-carotene. In fact, flavonoids protect the antioxidant vitamins from ox­idative damage. 

Numerous medicinal herbs contain therapeutic amounts of flavonoids, which are often a major component of an herb's medicinal activity.

Garlic

This versatile healing herb also has antioxidant properties. The sulfhydryl (sulfur and hydrogen) compounds in garlic are potent chelators of toxic heavy metals, binding with them so that they can be excreted. These same compounds are effective protectants against oxidation and free radicals. Garlic aids in the detoxification of peroxides such as hy­drogen peroxide and helps to prevent fats from being oxi­dized and deposited in tissues and arteries. Garlic also contains antioxidant nutrients such as vitamins A and C and selenium. 

Studies on aged garlic extract (AGE) have shown that the aginf_, process substantially boosts garlic's antioxidant potential. AGE protects against DNA damage, keeps blood vessels healthy, and guards against radiation and sunlight damage. According to researcher and nutritionist Robert I-San Lin, Ph.D., aged garlic extract can prevent liver dam­age caused by carbon tetrachloride, a common indoor pollutant, and free radical generator. Overall, aged garlic supplements provide a greater concentration of garlic's beneficial compounds. If you're worried about "garlic breath" putting a strain on your social life, choose an odor­less and tasteless form such as Kyolic aged garlic extract from Wakunaga of America. Aged garlic extract reduces blood cholesterol levels, thus lowering the risk of heart at­tack; provides protection from heart disease by preventing clots that can lead to heart attacks and strokes; and helps lower high blood pressure.

Ginkgo Biloba 

Ginkgo biloba is an herb with powerful antioxidant effects on the brain, retina, and cardiovascular system. It is well known for its ability to enhance circulation, and a study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed that it has a measurable effect on dementia in peo­ple with Alzheimer's disease and people recovering from strokes. Other studies indicate that it can improve both long- and short-term memory and enhance concentration. Gingko biloba has also been used to treat hearing problems, impotence, and macular degeneration. 

Anyone who takes prescription anticoagulant (blood­thinning) medication or who uses over-the-counter pain­killers regularly should consult a healthcare provider before using ginkgo biloba, as the combination may result in internal bleeding.

Glutathione

Glutathione is a protein that is produced in the liver from the amino acids cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. It is a powerful antioxidant that inhibits the formation of and protects against cellular damage from free radicals. It helps to defend the body against damage from cigarette smoking, exposure to radiation, cancer chemotherapy, and toxins such as alcohol. As a detoxifier of heavy metals and drugs, it aids in the treatment of blood and liver disorders. 

Glutathione protects cells in several ways. It neutralizes oxygen molecules before they can harm cells. Together with selenium, it forms the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which neutralizes hydrogen peroxide. It is also a compo­nent of another antioxidant enzyme, glutathione-S-trans­ferase, which is a broad-spectrum liver-detoxifying enzyme. 

Glutathione protects not only individual cells but also the tissues of the arteries, brain, heart, immune cells, kid­neys, lenses of the eyes, liver, lungs, and skin against oxi­dant damage. It plays a role in preventing cancer, especially liver cancer, and may actually target carcinogens, make them water-soluble, and then help escort them from the body. It may also have an anti-aging effect. The rate at which we age is directly correlated with reduced concen­trations of glutathione in cellular fluids; as we grow older, glutathione levels drop, resulting in a decreased ability to deactivate free radicals. 

Glutathione can be taken in supplement form. The pro­duction of glutathione by the body can be boosted by taking supplemental dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone; N-acetylcysteine or L-cysteine; and L-methio­nine. Studies suggest that this may be a better way of rais­ing glutathione levels than taking glutathione itself.

Grape Seed Extract 

See under Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins in this section. 

Green Tea 

Green tea contains compounds known as polyphenols, in­cluding phytochemicals that have antioxidant, antibacter­ial, antiviral, and health-enhancing properties. Tests on epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a particular type of polyphenol in green tea, have shown that it is able to pen­etrate the body's cells and shield DNA from hydrogen per­oxide, a potent free radical. Green tea protects against cancer, lowers cholesterol levels, and reduces the clotting tendency of the blood. It also shows promise as a weight­loss aid that can promote fat burning and help reg­ulate blood sugar and insulin levels. 

Green tea is simply the dried leaves of the tea plant. Black tea undergoes natural fermentation, which converts tannins, astringent phytochemicals, into more complex compounds. This fermentation process destroys most of the black tea's polyphenols, rendering it less effective as an an­tioxidant.

Melatonin

The hormone melatonin is an efficient free radical scav­enger and singlet oxygen quencher. Singlet oxygen is an "excited" oxygen molecule whose excessive discharge of energy causes damage to other body molecules. While most antioxidants work only in certain parts of certain cells, melatonin can permeate any cell in any part of the body. More importantly, melatonin is one of the few antioxidants that can penetrate the mitochondria, the cell's "power plants," which produce energy. Melatonin does seem to protect the mitochondria from free radical damage. In lab­oratory experiments, melatonin supplementation has been found to extend the lifespan of mice. Other non-human lab­oratory studies have shown that supplemental melatonin can inhibit cancer growth, help modulate the immune sys­tem, and protect against degenerative diseases. Melatonin also stimulates the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, another antioxidant.

Methionine

A unique amino acid, methionine neutralizes hydroxyl rad­icals, one of the most dangerous types of free radicals. Most often a byproduct of reactions between heavy metals and toxic free radicals, hydroxyl radicals can be formed also during strenuous exercise or exposure to high levels of ra­diation, and can damage any type of body tissue. 

N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

The sulfur-containing amino acid cysteine is needed to pro­duce the free radical fighter glutathione and to help main­tain it at adequate levels in the cells. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a more stable form of cysteine that can be taken in supplement form. 

NAC is used by the liver and lymphocytes to detox­ify chemicals and other poisons. It is a powerful detoxifier of alcohol, tobacco smoke, and environmental pollutants, all of which are immune suppressors. Supplemental NAC can boost the levels of protective enzymes in the body, thus slowing some of the cellular damage char­acteristic of aging. NAC supplementation may also de­crease both the frequency and duration of infectious diseases. It has been used to treat AIDS and chronic bron­chitis. 

People with diabetes should not take supplemental NAC without first consulting a healthcare provider, as it can interfere with the effectiveness of insulin.

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NADH) 

Also known as coenzyme 1, nicotinamide adenine dinu­cleotide with high-energy hydrogen, or NADH, is the "spark" that ignites energy production in the body's cells. NADH's high antioxidant capacity derives from its ability to reduce substances. NADH plays a central role in DNA repair and maintenance and in the cellular im­mune defense system. Studies report that NADH can also inhibit the auto-oxidation of the neurotransmitter dopa­mine, which causes the release of toxic chemicals that may damage sensitive parts of the brain. 

Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins 

Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) are naturally occur­ring substances present in a variety of food and botanical sources. They are unique phytochemicals known as flav­onoids that have powerful antioxidant capabilities. OPCs are highly water soluble, so the body can absorb them rapidly. Clinical tests suggest that OPCs may be as much as fifty times more potent than vitamin E and twenty times more potent than vitamin C regarding bioavailable anti­oxidant activity. Moreover, OPCs work with the antiox­idant glutathione to recycle and restore oxidized vitamin C, thus increasing the vitamin's effectiveness. Because they are able to cross the blood-brain barrier, OPCs can protect the brain and spinal nerves against free radical damage. In addition to their antioxidant activity, OPCs protect the liver from damage caused by toxic doses of acetaminophen, a non-prescription pain reliever; they strengthen and repair connective tissue, including that of the cardiovascular sys­tem; and they support the immune system and slow aging. They also moderate allergic and inflammatory responses by reducing histamine production. 

OPCs are found throughout plant life; however, the two main sources are pine bark extract (Pycnogenol), produced from the French maritime pine tree, and grape seed extract, made from the seeds of the wine grape (Vitis vinifera). Pyc­nogenol was the first source of OPCs discovered, and the process for extracting it was patented in the 1950s. Pyc­nogenol is a trademarked name for pine bark extract, not a generic term for OPCs from other sources.

Pycnogenol

See under Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins in this section. 

Selenium 

Selenium is an essential trace mineral that functions as an antioxidant in partnership with vitamin E to protect tissues and cell membranes. Among other things, it increases an­tioxidant enzyme levels in cells. Selenium is also an integral component of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxi­dase (each molecule of this enzyme contains four atoms of selenium). Glutathione peroxidase targets harmful hydro­gen peroxide in the body and converts it into water. It is a particularly important guardian of blood cells and of the heart, liver, and lungs. 

Numerous plants contain selenium, including garlic, as­paragus, and grains, but the levels depend on soil content, which varies from one geographic region to another. 

Use caution when taking supplemental selenium. Amounts higher than 1,000 micrograms (1 milligram) daily may be toxic. 

Silymarin 

Extracted from the seeds of the herb milk thistle, silymarin has been used for centuries to treat liver disease. The active ingredients in milk thistle are several types of flavonoids (powerful antioxidants) known collectively as silymarin. Silymarin guards the liver from oxidative damage. It also protects the liver from toxins, drugs, and the effects of al­cohol and promotes the growth of new liver cells. In addi­tion, silymarin increases glutathione levels, a potent antioxidant enzyme produced in the liver.

Superoxide Dismutase 

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an enzyme. SOD revitalizes cells and reduces the rate of cell destruction. It neutralizes the most common, and possibly the most dangerous, free radicals-superoxide radicals. Superoxide radicals insti­gate the breakdown of synovial fluid, the lubricant for the body's joints. This leads to friction and, ultimately, inflammation. SOD works synergistically with the enzyme cata­lase, which is abundant throughout the body. Catalase re­moves hydrogen peroxide byproducts created by SOD reactions. 

SOD also aids in the body's utilization of zinc, copper, and manganese. Its levels tend to decline with age while free radical production increases. Its potential as an anti­aging treatment is currently being explored. 

Chemically speaking, there are two forms of this en­zyme. The copper/zinc form (known as Cu/Zn SOD) ex­erts its antioxidant properties in the cytoplasm of cells. This is the watery fluid that surrounds all the other cellular com­ponents. Metabolic activity in the cyto­plasm results in the production of free radicals; Cu/Zn neutralizes them. The manganese form (Mn-SOD) is active in the mitochondria, structures within cells where energy is produced. The production of cellular energy also leads to the creation of free radicals. 

SOD occurs naturally in barley grass, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, wheatgrass, and most green plants. It is also available in supplement form. SOD supplements in pill form must be enteric coated-that is, coated with a protec­tive substance that allows the pill to pass intact through the stomach acid into the small intestines to be absorbed. Cell Guard from Biotec Food Corporation and KAL SOD-3 from Nutraceutical International Corporation are good sources of SOD.

Vitamin A and the Carotenoids 

A class of phytochemicals, carotenoids are fat-soluble pig­ments found in yellow, red, green, and orange vegetables and fruits. They are a potent family of antioxidants that in­clude alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Of the more than 500 carotenoids found in na­ture, about 50 can be converted into vitamin A in the body. 

Carotenoids quench singlet oxygen, which is not, chem­ically speaking, a free radical but is nevertheless highly re­active and can damage body molecules. Carotenoids also act as anticancer agents, decrease the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, and inhibit heart dis­ease. Studies have shown that carotenoids found in tomato juice (lycopene), carrots (alpha- and beta-carotene), and spinach (lutein) may help to protect against cancer by re­ducing oxidative and other damage to DNA. 

Together, the antioxidants alpha-lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, vitamin C, and vitamin E help conserve carotenoids in tissues. 

The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A as needed. Any leftover beta-carotene then acts as an antioxi­dant, breaking free radical chain reactions and preventing the oxidation of cholesterol. It reduces the oxidation of DNA and disables reactive oxygen species molecules gen­erated by exposure to sunlight and air pollution, prevent­ing damage to the eyes, lungs, and skin. 

A recent laboratory study found that taking high doses of supplemental beta-carotene alone (50,000 interna­tional units or more daily) may interfere with the normal control of cell division. It is best to take a carotenoid com­plex containing a variety of carotenoids.

Vitamin C 

Vitamin C is a very powerful antioxidant that also recharges other antioxidants, such as vitamin E, to keep them potent. Its water solubility makes it an efficient free radical scavenger in body fluids. Some studies have shown that vitamin C is the first line of antioxidant defense in plasma against many different kinds of free radicals. The brain and spinal cord cells, which frequently incur free radical damage, can be protected by significant amounts of vitamin C. This vitamin also guards against ath­erosclerosis by preventing damage to artery walls. Vitamin C acts as a more potent free radical scavenger in the pres­ence of the phytochemical hesperidin. 

Vitamin E 

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that prevents the oxi­dation of lipids (fats). Fat oxidation has been implicated in the process that leads to atherosclerosis. Vitamin E is fat sol­uble and, since cell membranes are composed of lipids, it effectively prevents the cells' protective coatings from becoming rancid as a result of the assault of free radicals. Vitamin E also improves oxygen utilization, enhances im­mune response, plays a role in the prevention of cataracts caused by free radical damage, and may reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. 

The natural form of vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) is superior to the synthetic version (dl-alpha tocopherol). New evidence suggests that zinc is needed to maintain nor­mal blood concentrations of vitamin E. Selenium enhances vitamin E uptake. These two nutrients work together in the body.

Zinc 

Zinc's main antioxidant function is to prevent fat oxidation. In addition, it is a constituent of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD). Zinc is also needed for proper maintenance of vitamin E levels in the blood and aids in the absorption of vitamin A 

The Ultimate Guide to Antioxidants

Harness the Power of Antioxidants to Safeguard Your Health

Antioxidants are nature's shield against harmful free radicals. These radicals can damage cells, weaken immunity, and contribute to diseases like heart disease, cancer, and even the aging process. By incorporating antioxidant-rich foods and supplements into your daily routine, you can help protect your body and maintain vibrant health.

What Are Free Radicals?

Free radicals are unstable molecules formed by natural processes in the body, such as metabolism, and external factors like:

• Radiation Exposure: Including UV rays from the sun.

• Pollutants: From cigarette smoke, air pollution, and industrial chemicals.

• Stressors: Generated when breaking down fats for energy.

Unchecked free radicals can cause oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage and chronic illnesses.

How Antioxidants Work

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by stabilizing them, reducing their ability to harm cells. Your body produces its own free radical scavengers—enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase. But you can boost your defense with dietary antioxidants found in:

• Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Beta-Carotene.

• Phytochemicals: Flavonoids and carotenoids found in fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Herbs: Natural sources like green tea, turmeric, and ginkgo biloba.

Why Antioxidants Are Essential in Today’s World

Our modern environment exposes us to elevated levels of free radicals, making it challenging to obtain sufficient antioxidants through diet alone. Supplementing with high-quality antioxidant formulas ensures your body has the support it needs.

The Synergy of Antioxidants

For maximum benefits, antioxidants should be taken in combination. Research shows smaller doses of multiple antioxidants are more effective than a large dose of just one. For instance, beta-carotene combined with other carotenoids provides enhanced protection against oxidative stress.

Benefits of Antioxidants

• Combat oxidative damage linked to aging.

• Support the immune system to fight infections.

• Reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease.

• Promote healthier skin, vision, and cardiovascular health.

Incorporate Antioxidants into Your Life Today

From vibrant fruits and vegetables to trusted supplements, antioxidants are essential allies in maintaining optimal health. Choose a balanced mix of nutrients to ensure your body’s defenses are always at their strongest.