Could a good daily intake of antioxidants unlock the secret to a youthful looking skin and greater longevity?

Antioxidants are an important group of substances that can be obtained from natural food sources or food supplements. They are substances that can slow down or prevent damage to our cells caused by free radical activity, connected to the visible signs of aging and many other associated dis-eases (inflammation). The better-known antioxidant nutrients are vitamin C, vitamin E, Coenzyme Q10, beta carotene, selenium, manganese and other plant extracts like the well-documented properties of grapeseed extract and turmeric.

Free radicals are highly unstable molecules that the body produces in response to certain physical activities or the environment we are exposed to.  The cell damage caused by free radicals is known as oxidative stress.  This can occur from excessive exercise, mitochondrial activity, trauma and/or exposure to toxins.  Oxidative stress may hugely increase our risk of developing chronic diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, arthritis, respiratory diseases, premature aging and vision loss, due to age-related macular degeneration.