Antioxidants for Anti-Aging

Every day we are exposed to air pollution, sunlight, smoke and more, all which create "free radicals". The food we eat can also contribute to free radical damage and inflammation. Refined sugar, soft drink, white bread, pasta and excess coffee all contribute to the chemical reactions that produce free radicals. Among other effects in the body, free radicals attack your skin's collagen layer, accelerating the creation of fine lines and wrinkles. This process is called, "photo aging". Much research has been done with regard to the benefits of antioxidants to combat the production of free radicals. Recent research has shown us that topical Vitamin C can help to improve skin tone and elasticity, helps re-build collagen and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Plant antioxidants also help stop free radical skin damage. Grapeseed and green tea are specific skin antioxidants as are vitamin A from carrot seed oil, B6 and zinc.

Good food sources of antioxidants are fruit and vegetables. Two serves of fruit and 5 serves of vegetables per day is a healthy aim. Choose as many different coloured fruits and vegetables as you can for a rich variety of antioxidants. If you don't already, challenge yourself to reach this goal of 7 serves per day. You will soon notice a difference in your skin health if you choose fruit and vegetables over refined sugars and "white" foods.

In general, antioxidants help to maintain the health of the skin cells such as collagen and elastin which keeps skin supple. Use both topical antioxidants as well as eating plenty of different healthy foods that contain antioxidants.