The studies focus primarily on vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, flavonoids, selenium and zinc.

The relationship between antioxidants and cardiovascular disease, and possibly cerebrovascular diseases, is now sufficiently established.

It is known that modification of the “bad” cholesterol (LDL-c) plays a fundamental role in the initiation and development of atherosclerosis (thickening and hardness abnormal lining of blood vessels due to a deposit of fatty material that prevents or hinders the passage of blood).

Antioxidants can block free radicals that modify the bad cholesterol, reducing cardiovascular risk. On the other hand, low levels of antioxidants may be a risk factor for certain cancers.

Are Antioxidants That Good?

Although the intake of foods rich in antioxidants reduces the risk of certain diseases, they do not alter the normal deterioration that leads to aging and define how long we live.

Also it has been demonstrated that high doses of supplemental antioxidants can be counterproductive. Although each day we know more about the benefits of antioxidants – and one of the positive results is that it has led to greater awareness of natural foods that contain these antioxidants -it is still too early to say how much daily supplemental antioxidants should be taken because the correct dosages have not yet been properly identifies.

So we know antioxidants are good for us and therefore, the right thing is to follow a varied and balanced diet, that includes a rich mix of vegetables, greens and fruits and yes you can use supplemental antioxidants, but not abuse them.

Although you may not like the taste, you should try to eating as its benefits far outweigh its taste.

Many people worry about the potential bad breath you can get from garlic and yet it is wildly used in cooking (specially Mediterranean foods.

Garlic (Allium sativum) belongs to the Liliaceae family and subfamily Allioideas. Its properties (medicinal especially) have been valued for centuries In Egypt and Greece since ancient times.

Today it is recognized to have a beneficial influence in the functioning of the heart and, when combined with citrus, it is an effective remedy for colds and coughs. It was also used as a treatment for leprosy and as an ingredient in remedies during the black plague in Europe (14th Century)

Garlic is an essential ingredient in many recipes. To take advantage of all its properties, garlic should be eaten raw, as the saying goes “cooked garlic, garlic lost. ”

Garlic Properties

Garlic is a diuretic, expectorant and natural stimulant. It has been used throughout history as an antiseptic. It is a natural remedy that is used for asthma, cough, breathing difficulties, bronchitis, tuberculosis, etc. Medical research has  found contrasting results in its ability to combat rheumatism.

Because of its high content of antioxidants such as allicin and quercetin, it is believed that garlic is helpful in reducing cancer risk. It also strengthens the immune system, is anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, vasodilator, debugger and a natural antibiotic.

The best time to consume garlic is when tender, during spring, as its flavor and aroma is more subtle. Having said that it is a natural food that can be found throughout the year and consumed dry.

This lovely Mediterranean herb can help fight colds and may help keep your memory in tact. It’s quite fragrant and makes a tasty marinade for steak with just a little balsamic and soy sauce. You can also add a sprig to lemonade for a decidedly unique and surprising flavor.

Rosemary: A Powerful Antioxidant in Your Garden originally appeared on FitSugar on Tue, 01/16/2007 – 3:30am Please see FitSugar for terms for use of feeds.

When it comes down to it though, a cocktail could never be really guilt free or without consequence since they still contain alcohol. Combining puréed organic lemon tomatoes infused with cilantro vodka will still provide a buzz and possibly a hangover depending on how many you drink, no matter the antioxidant count. After all organic rum is still rum.

This healthy cocktail trend certainly interests me. Take the green trend, mix in equal parts organic movement, add a splash of the health conscious living, shake or stir in your martini shaker proving and then we can have our organic cucumbers and drink them too.

Source

Antioxidants and Alcohol: The Health Conscious Cocktail Trend originally appeared on FitSugar on Tue, 07/17/2007 – 2:00am Please see FitSugar for terms for use of feeds.

An analysis of dozens of studies illustrates that supplements of Vitamins A, C and E as well as beta carotene and selenium do not help people live longer. Yep, it is better to get your nutrients from food not supplements.

Not all experts agree that folks should stop taking their vitamins. Meir Stampfer, professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health, said the new analysis hasn’t discouraged him from taking his vitamins. He believes the studies were not consistent enough to convince him that supplements have no value.

Fit’s Tip: I have a love/hate relationship with vitamin supplements, so I strongly suggest eating healthy, well balanced meals to get your antioxidants. If you feel like you’re not quite getting all that you need, then by all means, take a supplement. Try to eat more winter squash it is really high in vitamins A and C as well as beta carotene.

Antioxidants: Food IS Better Than Supplements originally appeared on FitSugar on Thu, 03/01/2007 – 5:30pm Please see FitSugar for terms for use of feeds.