ANTIOXIDANTS

Antioxidants are by far the most potent anti-aging agents as free radical scavengers. It is proven that taking antioxidants result in longer life and lower incidence of disease by decreasing disease susceptibility and are a must in any anti-aging diet. Whether supplementation with antioxidants alone retards aging, is yet unproven. The three antioxidants which are best known for their activity are:

Vitamins E - the most significant fat-soluble, chain-breaking antioxidant in human blood. Sufficient Vitamin E increases immune response and resistance to infection. It also exerts cancer-inhibiting properties and protects from toxic chemical agents (mercury, lead, ozone). Supplement with 300 IU.

Vitamin C - the primary water-soluble antioxidant obtained from food and has proven beneficial in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and immune enhancement. Vitamin C is also essential for optimal brain metabolism, carnitine synthesis and manufacturing connective tissue. As an effective scavenger of free radicals, it also and protects against LDL cholesterol. In some cases it may act as a pro-oxidant, a function counteracted by Vitamin E, hence it is essential that these vitamins be supplemented together. The most effective form is Ester-C, with 500 mg taken between meals.

Alpha Lipoic Acid [ALA] - is both water and fat soluble and plays a role in glucose metabolism. It lowers oxidative stress thus reversing age-related decline in mitochondrial functions. Current recommendation is to take 120 mg daily.

For detailed information on antioxidants.