Antioxidants – what the term means

Antioxidants are often mentioned in connection with the fight against diseases. But what exactly is behind the term?
At a very basic level, antioxidants are chemical compounds that slow down or even prevent oxidation. They are mainly found in plant-based foods but can also be taken as dietary supplements.
Antioxidants are actually also produced by our own body, but this supply is often not enough to meet the demand.
The function of antioxidants is as follows: free radicals, whose significance we will explain in more detail in the following section, look for an electron. Antioxidants give them exactly this electron so they don’t have to take it from somewhere else. This way, they protect the body's own cells from oxidation.

Free radicals and oxidative stress

In the topic of antioxidants, one inevitably comes across the terms "free radicals" and "oxidative stress." We explain what this is all about.
Free radicals are oxygen molecules that are highly reactive and have unpaired electrons. Because of this, they strive to snatch an electron from other molecules. This reaction leads to the formation of new radicals. Due to this chain reaction and constant increase, oxidative stress occurs.
Oxidative stress can lead to the destruction of cells and diseases.

These foods contain antioxidants

Many foods have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are especially found in plant-based foods. Examples include fruits and vegetables as well as nuts, legumes, and whole grain products. Red, green, and yellow or orange fruits are also examples of antioxidant-rich foods. A helpful mnemonic is that fruits and vegetables in the colors of a traffic light have these properties. Below we have listed some examples again:

• Green: spinach, broccoli, kale, salads, herbs
• Yellow/Orange: carrots, citrus fruits, sweet potato, pineapple
• Red: berries, tomatoes, red bell peppers

The most important antioxidants and their positive effects

There are many different antioxidants. These are mainly found in numerous foods. Basically, a distinction is made mainly between vitamins, secondary plant compounds, minerals, trace elements, and enzymes.
Below we have compiled some of the most important antioxidants and some of their positive effects for you.

All antioxidants share one property: they protect cells from oxidative stress.

• Vitamin C: promotes collagen formation, supports the immune system
• Vitamin E: helps protect all cells from oxidative stress
• Zinc: supports the immune system, lowers blood sugar levels
• Selenium: supports the formation of sperm and thyroid hormones
• Iron: contributes to normal oxygen transport in the body

This list makes it clear that taking antioxidants is important. A healthy amount should be present in the body to support life-sustaining processes and effectively slow down the aging of our body.

The right dosage is important

The saying "the dose makes the poison" also applies to antioxidants. Taking them in a healthy amount is not a problem and contributes to protection against oxidative stress. However, too high an amount can have the opposite effect: an overdose can increase the risk of diseases.
So you should not exceed the recommended dose. With our products, you will always find a consumption recommendation that helps you take the right amount.

Antioxidant products at Vitalove

In the vitalove.ch shop, you will find products with valuable antioxidants. Whether as capsules, gummies, powder, or drops – we offer you many different ways to take these healthy helpers and thus support the natural processes in your body.