There is lots of discussion about reducing oxidative stress and the importance of antioxidants to reduce free radicals.

But what does it mean on a biochemical level? Is it really all that simple? Is there some yin and yang in play?

Just like for anything else, there is a time and a place for everything … even free radicals have their necessary role in the human body.

For example, free radicals play a natural role in heart health (as a pump), blood circulation, and vascular tone. In addition, free radicals are naturally produced in the brain as part of neurotransmitter metabolism.

The balance of oxidation is what’s important.

It’s a real challenge to maintain that balance of oxidation in today’s world with an overload of free radicals from the increasing number of chemicals — in our environment and food supply — and as we live longer.

The aging process may be due to free radical reactions. And diseases like cancer and atherosclerosis are sometimes referred to as “free radical” diseases.

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Antioxidants in the Diet, Nutrition Supplements

Eating a nutrient dense whole foods diet with lots of brightly colored fruits and vegetables (polyphenols) is the best way to load up with antioxidants to create the necessary balance.

Vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, lutein, selenium, zinc and copper have antioxidant properties.

Glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant, is available as highly absorbable supplement.

NAC (N-acetylcysteine), the precursor to glutathione is another excellent option.

Many herbs like curcumin, quercetin, and boswellia also possess antioxidant properties.

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Want to know more about free radicals and oxidative stress? Read this article from Integrative Therapeutics by Holly Lucille, ND, RN and Corey Schuler, MS, DC, CNS.

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