Antioxidants—also known as “free radical fighters”—have been making waves in the health and wellness industry. But what exactly do they do? Are they genuinely beneficial, or are they just another marketing buzzword? More importantly, is it better to get them from food or supplements? Let’s break it down.
Why Do We Need Antioxidants?
Free radicals are natural by-products produced by the body when processing food, particularly refined and processed foods, trans fats, artificial sweeteners, and certain additives. They are also generated due to environmental factors like pollution, smoking, exposure to pesticides, and even medical treatments such as chemotherapy.
If free radicals build up faster than the body can remove them, they cause oxidative stress, which can lead to cell damage, inflammation, and long-term health issues. This is where antioxidants come in—they help neutralise free radicals and protect cells from damage.
Best Natural Sources of Antioxidants
Different antioxidants serve different functions, so eating a varied diet is key. The best sources come from plant-based foods, particularly brightly coloured fruits and vegetables.
To naturally boost your antioxidant intake, try these simple dietary changes:
- Eat a variety of fruit and veg – Include a portion in every meal and snack.
- Sip on green or matcha tea – Packed with polyphenols that support cell health.
- Spice it up – Turmeric, cumin, oregano, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon enhance flavour and antioxidant content.
- Snack wisely – Opt for unsalted nuts and seeds, especially Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and almonds.
- Don’t forget protein sources – Eggs, dairy, liver, and mushrooms contain key antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin A.
Should You Take Antioxidant Supplements?
While supplements may seem like a quick fix, they aren’t always necessary—and in some cases, they can do more harm than good.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) advises caution with high doses, as they can be harmful or interfere with medications. If you’re considering supplements, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional first.
There are some potential benefits for people at risk of age-related macular degeneration, but again, this should be discussed with a doctor. The best way to get antioxidants is through food. If your diet is lacking in fruit and veg, try starting with two servings of fruit and three servings of vegetables daily before considering supplements.
Antioxidants play a crucial role in cell protection and overall health, but balance is key. Instead of relying on supplements, aim to eat a colourful, whole-food diet that provides a wide range of natural antioxidants.
Do you prioritise antioxidant-rich foods in your diet? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
#BeTheForce
Very nice!!!! Got to know something good!!
Truly worth reading… I have seen many People taking antioxidants like hell… Excess of anything is bad… As told by Doctor Shikha . Thanks mam, hope you keep guiding us on the right kind of food habits… Cheers…
Yeah, surely A.O are F.R.F.
Nice article to catch on to. Thanx @ Shikha for valuable knowledge. Eagerly waiting for the next one.
Very helpful
Thank you.
Very informative and to the point.
Good information.
Thankyou sir
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Short, precise and to the point.
Well written Dr Shikha Singh.
This is a real eye opener.In our daily life we take things casually and forget the important and essential things that need attention. Great article, very informative and educational.
Superb
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Thank you. This is very useful
The antioxidants are very much required to heal our body by revitalizing the damaged cells which is created by our unhealthy food habits or even due to unnoticed intake of attractive foods.
The guidelines given in selection of right antioxidants are very lucidly narrated in this blog.
Thanks for publishing such a nice blog to make us health conscious.
The necessity of antioxidants is very well explained in this article.
It is really a free advice to keep our body healthy at all times without shedding any money on doctors consultation.
This blog is really worth reading and advices mentioned therein must be applied in our daily life to keep us healthy at all times.
Nice and informative 🤗😁
This article is really good for one it really helps knowing about the nutrients in food what u have to consume for your good Appetite and good health..
Great knowledge achieved from this.
Very good information to all of us . It will help to keep healthy life for us.
Hi,
It helps our daily food choices and lead a healthier life.
Thank you so much.
Would love to read such informative blogs more..Thanks for this one…
Great learning.. This will help people develop awareness on lifestyle change with reason.
amazing write up
Thanks for spreading this knowledge to us.
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Very good article; it provided me with a lot of useful knowledge. As a blog, please continue to share more. I’ve added it to my bookmarks so that I can keep up with you.