Help your body combat the free radicals that can cause cellular damage.
Overview
What are free radicals?
Unstable molecules that cause chain reactions that can damage cells.
What is an antioxidant?
Antioxidants help stop or limit free radical chain reactions. By balancing free radicals, antioxidants can limit the spread – and sometimes even reverse – damage.
What are the symptoms of cell damage?
Scientists believe free radicals can speed up the ageing process. They may also influence diseases such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease.
How do I know whether I have enough antioxidants?
A simple blood test is all you need. Book yours now.
Did You Know?
Eating apples, grapes and potatoes with the skin on is a great way to boost your antioxidant levels.
What are free radicals?
When your body’s cells use oxygen, they can become free radicals, ‘attacking’ and ‘stealing’ the electrons they need to remain stable from another molecule. This oxidation can in turn create another free radical, which starts a chain reaction.
Free radicals can be caused by your body’s natural process of turning food into energy, by toxins (environmental, alcohol, smoking etc) and by UV rays.
What damage do free radicals cause?
Left unchecked, free radicals can cause cell damage. Scientists believe this cell damage can speed up the ageing process and may also be a contributory factor in diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
What do antioxidants do?
Antioxidants fight free radicals, bringing the molecules back into balance. They can prevent or stop free radical chain reactions. They can prevent damage spreading. And in some instances, they can even reverse damage caused. Antioxidants can also boost your immune system.
Common antioxidants include:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Beta-carotene
- Lycopene
- Selenium
You will find them in most fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains. By eating a balanced diet, you should get all the antioxidants your body needs.
Why might I need testing?
You may be at greater risk of free radical-caused cell damage if:
- You do not eat a balanced diet
- You are regularly exposed to the sun
- You use UV tanning
- You smoke or drink
Whilst you could take supplements to bring your antioxidants to the ideal level, taking too many can also have harmful effects, so it is important to know your antioxidant levels before you take any action.
How do I get tested?
Better2Know’s simple blood test gives you certainty about your antioxidant status, so you know if you need to increase your levels, and by how much.
To get tested and find out what is causing your ill health, please contact Better2Know on the number above.