Clueless about antioxidants?

Results from a survey conducted by Wakefield Research for a nutritional products company, MonaVie, may be a little bit disturbing for some. It says that 92% of its respondents in the US could not accurately tell what antioxidants are and 91% could not provide examples of foods rich in antioxidants. Ironically, 75% said that they try to eat foods rich in antioxidants. These results stem from misinformation, according to the survey.

Antioxidants are molecules that neutralise free radicals, different molecules which can damage living cells.  Free radicals result from oxidation, a natural process which occurs when we digest food, exercise, or simply breathe in and out. Living in environments with pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke and herbicides also increases free radical production. The more free radicals in the body, the more opportunity there is for illness and premature aging to occur. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals in the body, thus keeping the body in a healthier, more balanced state.

"Research links over 100 diseases to a high free radical and a low antioxidant count, yet people don't know that they can take a proactive stance against this risk^[1]," says Mark Macdonald, author of the New York Times bestselling book, Body Confidence, and MonaVie spokesperson.  "Based on the standard level of nutrients an average person requires, a large portion of the population is not consuming enough antioxidant-rich foods.^[2]  Antioxidants act as the body's own bodyguard.  There are convenient, easy ways to alleviate this deficiency, such as taking MonaVie antioxidant rich juices which guarantees you'll get a consistent, daily recommended serving of these powerful nutrients."

Berries, coffee, tea, dark coloured vegetables, and nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachios, pecans and hazelnuts) contain high levels of antioxidants.

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