Anti-oxidants protect the body against the destructive effects of free radicals. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating one of their own electrons, ending the electron-”stealing” reaction. The antioxidant nutrients themselves don’t become free radicals by donating an electron because they are stable in either form. They act as scavengers, helping to prevent cell and tissue damage that could lead to cellular damage and disease.
Potent anti-oxidants are vitamins E, C, B1, B3, B5, B6 & B12, minerals, grape seed extract, green tea extract, pomegranate, aloe vera, Noni berry, Goji berry, Blueberry, Acai berry, Maqui berry, cloves, turmeric, cinnamon, chocolate, magosteen, and selective herbs called ‘adaptogens’ among others.
These antioxidants help protect the body from free-radical damage. The best way to ensure adequate intake of the antioxidant nutrients is through a balanced diet consisting of 8-10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day, and supplement with a potent antioxidant formula with a high ORAC value!
What is ORAC value?
The ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) unit, ORAC value, or “ORAC score” is a method of measuring the antioxidant capacity of different foods and supplements. It was developed by scientists at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). While the exact relationship between the ORAC value of a food and its health benefit has not been established, it is believed that foods higher on the ORAC scale will more effectively neutralize free radicals. According to the free-radical theory of aging, this will slow the oxidative processes and free radical damage that can contribute to age-related degeneration and disease.
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Browse a comprehensive database of foods and their ORAC values at ORACValues.com.
Be careful when comparing ORAC values of products, and distinguish between products and ingredients! Make sure you compare ounce to ounce, and don’t believe the ‘estimated’ values! A good manufacturer will have an independent laboratory accurately measure the ORAC value of their product. The best known independent laboratory to measure ORAC value is Brunswick laboratories.
To find out what ‘Super Drinks’ have the highest ORAC value, check our article and video on “SUPER-DRINKS EXPOSED”.
Yours in Optimal Health,
Dr. Mike.
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Tags: antioxidants, ORAC, ORAC score, Super Drinks
I’ve got to order these products, they sound so good!
Comment by Remy — January 5, 2010 @ 12:42 pm
Great video Dr. Mike
Comment by Kenneth — January 5, 2010 @ 12:43 pm