Antioxidants are free radical scavengers. When you workout, your body releases lactic acid as well as other free radicals. Free radicals are harmful compounds which occur when weak bonds in molecules are split. This makes the compounds instable, and the only way for it to find balance again is to take another electron from another molecule. This can start a chain reaction and eventually kill cells. Damage can occur if not enough antioxidants are available.
Antioxidants help to neutralize these free radicals by donating one of their own electrons to the free radicals. This ends the electron stealing chain. The neat thing about these compounds is that they do not become free radicals by donating electrons for they are stable either way. What does all of this mean? It means that stopping these bad boys can prevent heart disease, cancer, reduce blood pressure and slow the effects of aging. Vitamin C and Vitamin E are the most abundant antioxidants.
Here is a list of the 10 most anti-oxidant dense foods:
- Berries
- Broccoli
- Tomatoes
- Red Grapes
- Garlic
- Spinach
- Tea
- Carrots
- Soy
- Whole Grains
Ok, I believe that I have made my point of how essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are for any person, especially fitness enthusiasts. Just take your vitamins and eat your fruits. Rant over.
