Antioxidant Supplements
Antioxidants Supplements are commonly presented & sold as Formulated Supplementary Sports Foods in Australia - Found in a variety of fruits, vegetables and other foods, anti oxidants are required by the body to protect cells. Ironically, all living things need oxygen to survive; however, by-products of oxygen called free radicals are what anti oxidants must protect cells against. Free radicals are formed when we breathe in oxygen. Their formation can be further increased by environmental factors such as UV rays and pollutants, as well as lifestyle factors such as cigarette smoke and exercise. People who exercise are more likely to live longer and less likely to become victims of disease - but athletes, bodybuilders and anyone else participating in regular vigorous exercise also have a much higher oxygen consumption level than a person who doesn’t exercise.
Increased oxygen levels can then lead to increased free radical levels within the body, thus increasing the chances of muscle damage and fatigue during and after workouts. The average person who exercises regularly and consumes healthy food shouldn’t be concerned – a healthy diet consisting of fruits and vegetables (and even the occasional glass of red wine) will contain plenty of anti oxidants. It’s those who put their body through gruelling training sessions on a daily basis that may use or consider using anti oxidant supplements. Endurance trainers in particular, especially marathon and long distance runners, will have higher than normal oxygen consumption levels. Without sufficient anti oxidant levels, free radicals are able to cause damage to cells, genetic materials within cells and cell tissue. Anti oxidants provide somewhat of a protection blanket for cells and tissues. They can decrease damage, assist in preventing free radicals from forming and neutralise the effects of existing free radicals. There are many more benefits associated with anti oxidants.
Studies have revealed that plenty of anti oxidants in the diet can lead to a longer life and assist in the prevention of conditions such as heart disease, cancer and ageing-related diseases. A study conducted at the University of California has concluded that an increase in anti oxidants within the body, whether naturally or by supplementation, reduced the risk of some cancers and showed signs of being likely to slow down the natural ageing process. Anti oxidant supplements commonly contain ingredients such as vitamins A, C and E, carotenoids (particularly beta-carotene), lipoic acid, zinc, copper, coenzyme Q10, milk thistle, green tea extract, cysteine and glutathione (the body’s most abundant anti oxidant). An anti oxidant supplement’s effects can be enhanced when stacked with another anti oxidant supplement containing varying ingredients. Anti oxidants work together to achieve positive results, so the more players in the team, the more successful it will be. If your chosen supplement does not include zinc or copper you may choose to stack with one or both of these products. They are not anti oxidants, but assist the body with its production of natural anti oxidants. Anti-oxidants are perfect to use in conjunctions with most if not all sports supplements including fat burners, pre-workout supplements, post-workout supplements & more.
Anti-oxidant supplements are not a sole source of nutrition and should be used in conjunction with an appropriate physical training or exercise programme. Not suitable for children or pregnant women. Should only be used under medical or dietetic supervision. Always read label prior to use.
