Antioxidants – Cell protection for the body against free radicals!
What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are generally understood to be micronutrients that scavenge free radicals in the body and stabilize cell protection and the immune system. Antioxidants that are ingested through food include vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, flavonoids, and secondary plant substances. Antioxidants are also produced by the body itself and are part of the so-called antioxidant network that protects the body from free radicals. Antioxidants essentially represent defense mechanisms against unwanted cell damage.
Antioxidants are natural protective substances found in many foods, but are often not consumed in sufficient quantities. They are particularly essential for people with an active lifestyle or those under particular stress. Intense physical exertion or the consumption of cigarettes and alcohol lead to increased formation of free radicals, which can damage cells and accelerate the aging process. This is where targeted intake of antioxidants comes in to provide your body with optimal support.
Discover antioxidants for better health and performance
In your everyday life, you are constantly exposed to environmental factors and stressors that can put stress on your body. Especially if you exercise, smoke, consume alcohol, or have pre-existing health conditions, your body's need for protective mechanisms increases. Antioxidants play a crucial role in this. They help neutralize harmful free radicals, thus sustainably supporting your health and performance.
What consequences do free radicals cause in the body?
When the number of free radicals in the body increases, oxidative stress occurs. Oxidative stress places a strain on the body and organs and can lead to numerous, sometimes serious, diseases. These include arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and various types of cancer. Free radicals pose a major risk and should be reduced at all costs through a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle.
What antioxidants are there?
The origin of antioxidants can be divided into two areas:
- Antioxidants produced in the body (hormones, enzymes,...)
- Antioxidants supplied through food (fruit, vegetables,...)
Antioxidants that are supplied through food include vitamins C, E, selenium, and secondary plant substances such as OPC, beta carotene, flavonoids (tea), anthocyanins (red cabbage, cherries, etc.), zeaxanthin (spinach, bell peppers), and chlorophyll (spinach, lettuce, barley grass, wheatgrass, spirulina). In principle, the greatest amount of antioxidants is absorbed through plant-based foods. Many foods also stimulate the release of hormones that help the body's defenses reduce oxidative stress.
Which foods contain antioxidants?
Vitamins and minerals are found in numerous foods, as already mentioned, primarily in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other plant-based foods. Plant extracts such as OPC (grape seed extract) or green tea extract are also effective antioxidants and are considered very healthy.
Are antioxidants important for athletes?
Antioxidants are particularly important for athletes because they have a positive impact on overall health and can protect the body from cellular damage and serious diseases. Physical fitness is especially important for athletes, and this only works when all links in the chain (organs, muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, hormones, etc.) are optimally balanced.
What can we offer you in our antioxidants category?
At Muscle Lab, you'll find a wide selection of high-quality antioxidants that you can conveniently purchase online. Our products are specifically tailored to your needs and offer effective dietary support as well as a valuable contribution to muscle building. Whether you're looking for natural extracts, vitamins, or specialized nutritional supplements, you'll find exclusive products with us that promote your health and support your training goals.
Many athletes know that antioxidants are truly multitalented and extremely important for our health. They help accelerate recovery and protect against free radicals. At the same time, they protect your cells from the oxidative stress caused by intense workouts. Even if you smoke or drink alcohol, you can provide your body with valuable support and prevent long-term damage with the right selection of antioxidants.