** Antioxidants for Healthy skin ** What is an antioxidant is and how does it works in the body to reduce inflammation, prevent cellular damage and provide the building blocks for healthy skin cells. We hear all about free radicals and antioxidants in advertising, but what exactly are they? Antioxidants are compounds found in whole foods that “POW” out or neutralize the bad guys – the free radicals! Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that have only one electron instead of two. They scavenge around looking for electrons to steal, damaging cells along the way. Foods that are rich in antioxidant are those that provide the needed oxygen molecule and squelch the free radicals. Below is a short list of antioxidant-rich foods. The challenge this week is to consume 2 servings per day from the list below: CHOCOLATE, yes CHOCOLATE! Green Tea All berries Spices: oregano, cinnamon, turmeric, fennel, nutmeg, ginger, etc. Onions Prunes/Plums Apples Yes, chocolate is on the list! Now don’t get too carried away here and think that Im suggesting that you eat two Snicker’s bars every day to reach your goal. When you add milk fat and sugar to the chocolate you neutralize the benefits. The antioxidants in chocolate come from cocoa. Cocoa contains flavonoids, which are increased even more when heated. An occasional cup of “real” hot cocoa is a good thing. Dark chocolate is also great (70% or higher). #ozarenbeautyfacts
Posted on: Mon, 18 Nov 2013 18:00:00 +0000