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ABSTRACT:
During the last decade, the word antioxidant has acquired the same importance in preventative health care as vitamins, minerals and proteins. Nowadays people in general no longer worry about infectious diseases or the usual nutritional deficiencies; instead, the main concerns regarding health are degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis, on which antioxidants can play important roles.
Most antioxidants are natural pigments in fruits, vegetables and spices. Generally, they improve blood flow and some, according to their chemical structure, have special abilities to fight free radicals that trigger the symptoms of aging.
In addition to traditional nutrients like vitamins C, E and beta- carotene, based on recent studies, the most recognized antioxidants are resveratrol, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, curcumin, and astaxanthin. It would be beneficial to take advantage of these antioxidants through food and dietary supplements.
