Antioxidants are substances that scavenge the free radicals in the body. These free radicals are continuously generated inside our body as a result of the byproduct of metabolism.
They are directly involved in the prevention of cellular damage in conditions like cancer, ageing and many other health problems.
There is a lot of craze among the general population regarding the use of antioxidants as an attempt to naturally prevent the onset of many diseases.
In this era of modernization, people are looking for ways to improve their health and fitness levels in a natural way rather than going for pricey treatment procedures and medication.
The demand for antioxidant rich natural sources of food supplements are therefore on the rise.
What are Free Radicals?
Free radicals are charged molecules that circulate in our body. These are highly reactive and if not neutralized by some antioxidant source, these free radicals start interacting with the body cells up to the level of DNA and cause irreparable damage to the body.
In order to prevent this damage from free radicals, the body has a natural system of enzymes which act as anti-oxidants and bind to these free radicals neutralizing them.
Which are the Main Vitamins and Minerals which act as Antioxidants?
The main vitamins that act as antioxidants are vitamin A, vitamin C and Vitamin E.
Amongst minerals, selenium is the best antioxidant source which is also a micronutrient, required by the body in trace amounts.
How safe are Antioxidants?
There was a time when antioxidants were considered to be highly safe for human consumption, as a result of this, many people started making illegitimate use of these antioxidant sources.
But, with further researches done in this field, it is now claimed that there should be a definite amount of antioxidant consumption as per the body’s requirement.
For example, vitamin C is a great natural antioxidant, but we all know excess consumption of any vitamin including vitamin C leads to hyper vitaminosis. Therefore, use of any kind of antioxidant or natural antioxidant supplement should be highly regulated and great care should be taken while using it in order to reap maximum benefits and prevent complications.
Is it Possible to Prevent Deadly Diseases like Cancer with the Use of Antioxidants?
Many studies have shown that people who take a wholesome diet rich in essential nutrients have a reduced risk of contracting heart disease and cancer.
Currently, a lot of research is going on by which it would be possible to clearly deduce the exact quantity of antioxidants required by the body in order to prevent many life threatening diseases.
Why do Athletes Need More Antioxidant Supplementation?
Athletes need more antioxidant supplementation as they are generating a lot more free radicals in the body as compared to the normal human beings.
It is because athletes do a lot of physical exercise and endure a lot of muscular exertion, because of which a large number of free radicals are generated as a result of the oxidative damage.
Therefore, athletes are advised to consume a diet rich in vitamins and minerals which not only act as antioxidants but are also required for carrying our day to day activities.
What are the food Products that can act as a Natural Source of Antioxidants?
- Amongst Vegetables – broccoli, cabbage, spinach, kale, green peppers, carrots, tomatoes and most green vegetables are great natural antioxidants.
- Among Fruits – All citrus fruits like oranges, grapes, peaches, berries such as blueberries, cranberries etc. are very effective sources of natural antioxidants.
- Others – milk, butter, liver, egg yolk, yams, grains etc.
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit was considered as a nectar of longevity by the Indian yogis in ancient times. In Sanskrit, the word shilajit means, “like a rock”, depicting its external morphology which has stone like physical features.
It is a resinous extract that is collected form the mountainous regions of the Himalayas that stretch across India, China, Tibet and parts of central Asia.
It has found mention in one of the oldest literature on Ayurveda known as “The Charak Samhita”.
Biochemically Shilajit is a rich source of more than 85 minerals, Vitamins, phytonutrients and fulvic acid.
Fulvic acid helps in the absorption of vitamins and minerals into each and every body cell.
Planet Ayurveda’s Shilajit Capsules
Planet Ayurveda’s Shilajit capsules contain standardized extract of pure Shilajit obtained from the mountainous regions of the Himalayas.
Each capsule has a cellulose shell and is absolutely free from gelatin. The product is 100 % vegetarian and free from any kind of artificial chemicals, additives, preservatives, colors and binders.
It is a natural supplement that can be consumed a s part of the daily diet routine to maintain health and wellbeing.
Dosage – 1 -2 Capsules, twice daily, with plain water or meal after meals.
