So what are free radicals:
They are highly reactive toxic molecules that are electrochemically unbalanced. They are a part of all biological systems and are formed naturally during a wide variety of processes, including perspiring, energy production and cell metabolism. We are supposed to have sufficient essential antioxidant enzymes in our bodies to de-activate them before they succeed in causing us any harm.
But the trouble starts with the daily onslaught of physical, emotional, chemical and electromagnetic stresses. Our bodies simply start producing more free radicals than our natural, essential antioxidant enzymes are able to dispose of.
When these free radicals get out of hand - and they do, after constant, severe and/or long periods of exposure to these lifestyle hazards - they set in motion a relentless process of destruction and degeneration of the body as a whole.
Research has concluded that free radical damage underlies the pathology of all 50-odd 'non-germ' (i.e. auto-immune or lifestyle) diseases, despite their different manifestations in the body*. They include diabetes, arteriosclerosis, cancer, allergies, arthritis, lupus, dementia and other age-related diseases, heart disease, asthma, hypertension, high cholesterol, stress and depression.
As a matter of interest, free radical damage also lies at the heart of premature ageing. Free radicals can cause severe nutrient deficiencies, since they prevent and/or inhibit the efficient uptake of certain nutrients by the body.
How can their effects be controlled?
Naturally, you would want to minimise your physical risk of free radicals entering your body. There are numerous ways in which to avoid them and make a positive contribution towards your body's well-being.
- Quit smoking. Now,
- Limit your alcohol intake and if you do enjoy wine, go for red wine.
- Focus on eating whole foods such as beans, pulses and grains and avoid foodthat obviously contains (even so-called harmless) chemicals such as colorantsand MSG.
- Eat as much organically grown food as possible. A few considerate, cleverly managed food stores now stock a respectable range of organically grown foods. Woolworths especially, gets my loyal and enthusiastic vote for their good (but still too small) range of organic foods.
- Ensure a substantial daily intake of fresh fruit and vegetables
- Invest in a decent water filter and drink filtered water. This includes the water you use for making beverages and cooking.
- Increase your physical activity. Walking, swimming, dancing, jogging and all sorts of aerobic exercises counter-act damage.
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