Essential Supplements
Antioxidants

Antioxidants are a group of chemicals that devour free radicals. Many of these antioxidants are phytochemicals (plant products) that are obtained by a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. However, there are animal antioxidants, such as Co-Q10, and minerals such as selenium, that act as antioxidants.  Free radicals are created when cells are under attack from various toxins, viruses, germs or fungi. They are caused by tobacco smoke, pollution, stress, and hydrogenated, overheated or rancid oils; and they are almost always produced by fried foods.

If left unchecked, free radicals damage cells, leading to a suppressed immune system and, subsequently, to degenerative disease. They are a primary cause of wrinkles and sagging skin. Combat them with the high concentration of antioxidants found in wheat grass juice, barley grass, sprouts and dark green vegetables. For added protection, you may want to take a daily supplement. Three popular antioxidants found in natural foods stores are: coenzyme Q₁₀ (Co-Q₁₀), grape seed extract and pycnogenol. The later two are oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), substances that are related to tannins and have benefits in addition to their antioxidant properties. Pycnogenol is a trade name for OPCs derived from a pine tree. Other supplements with antioxidant properties include the herbs bilberry and Ginkgo biloba, and green tea. And don’t forget vitamins A, C, and E, all of which have important antioxidant functions.