The Impact Of Antioxidants On Oxidative Stress

Antioxidants, those powerful disease-fightingBecause we consume plant matter, xanthophylls
components found in unprocessed fruits,are also naturally found within our bodies, including
vegetables, and even raw or lightly processedthe retina of our eyes and the cortex of our
dark chocolates, show high promise in the battlebrains. Existing research demonstrates that the
against age and disease. Indeed, Tufts University,xanthophylls lutein and zeaxanthin provide
in coordination with the U.S. Department ofprotection against retinal damage.  A separate
Agriculture, operates an antioxidant researchstudy has shown a similar correlation between a
laboratory with the aim of learning more abouthigh level of cortical xanthophylls and cognitive
these promising compounds.  The researchersabilities in older adults.  While further studies on
note that “high dietary intakes of antioxidantlarger populations are required to confirm this
vitamins and phytochemicals are associated withfinding, the benefits of antioxidants have
better maintenance of physiologic function and aconsistently been demonstrated as evidenced by
lower prevalence of many degenerative conditionsa variety of clinical research reports.
in older adults. Understanding how antioxidants,Cost Effective Health
especially the phytochemical carotenoids andIncreasing one’s intake of antioxidants,
flavonoids, reduce oxidative stress and impact theincluding xanthophylls, is one of the easiest and
pathogenesis of chronic disease presentmost cost-effective solutions for one’s health.
opportunities for health promotion and alternativeMany fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants,
therapeutic modalities for an aging population.”and premium supplements are available to fill any
Ongoing Studiesvoid.  Since antioxidants work best in
Current projects include determining the effectscombination, it is best to seek a supplement that
of nutritional supplements and antioxidants withis derived from a variety of fruits and vegetables.
respect to specific conditions, in particularThe Ultimate Antioxidant from Baseline Nutritionals
age-related conditions such as maculopathy andis one such antioxidant formula.
retinal disease.  Another study is working toEach antioxidant has unique properties which
determine the role of xanthophylls in cognitiveprotect different organs and different areas of
function. The outcome of such studies holdthe body.  For instance, melatonin helps to
significant hope for providing helpful informationprotect cell membranes and has been shown to
and treatment, especially as the Americanbe effective in mood and sleep disorders. 
population grows, on average, older, and thusBeta-carotene, found in carrots and other
age-related illness and disease becomes morevegetables, is effective for the eyes, but has also
prevalent.been shown to increase the risk of lung cancer in
Cognitive functionality is a worrisome concern forsmokers.  Careful analysis of the benefits and
many older Americans.  Alzheimer's disease andpotential risks of using antioxidants is warranted,
other dementia-type conditions are on the rise inalthough for most of us, the benefits usually far
our country, costing millions of dollars each yearoutweigh the risks.
and adding untold stress to families. XanthophyllsTry adding just a few antioxidants to your
offer hope that these millions have resulted innutritional regimen, and watch as your body
substantive findings.responds to the benefits of reduced oxidative
The Promise of Xanthophyllsstress. Read my review for The Ultimate
Xanthophylls are the yellow, oxygen-carryingAntioxidant here.
pigments found in the leaves of many plants.