Next-Generation Antioxidants

Move over first-generation antioxidants, next-generation antioxidants are taking over in scientific research and our hopes for healthier lives.  

First-generation antioxidants, all the rage at the turn of the century, have proven to have fallen short of their miraculous promise to prevent and erase many diseases. Vitamins C and E, as well as selenium, were included in this group.

Think of oxidation as rust in our bodies.  Just as rust on our possessions (cars and tools etc) affects their appearance and function, oxidation in our bodies is not a good thing. We all know that plaque buildup in our arteries restricts the flow of blood throughout our bodies.  Oxidation of this plaque can cause brittle and sharp chunks of it to fall off damaging and even tearing our arteries.

Antioxidation means the prevention of oxidation over time. Anti-oxidants, therefore, are targeted at diseases associated with aging such as neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases and even cancer.

Next-generation antioxidants are proving to be much more effective at preventing oxidation.  They prevent oxidation and more.  This new group includes:

• PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinoline quinone) is found in parsley, green tea, green peppers, kiwi, spinach, and peanuts.  PQQ also provides cellular energy.
• CoenzymeQ10 is found in spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower.
• Glutathione  also cleanses the body of toxins such as pollution, antibiotics, medicine etc.   Organic whey (cow and goat), asparagus, okra, rice bran, turmeric, cinnamon, curcumin, milk thistle, avocados, red beets, peaches, watermelon, and brazil nuts as well as sulfur-containing vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, garlic etc, all increase our glutathione levels.
• EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) is found in green tea.
• Astaxanthin is 500 times more powerful than vitamin C.  Although shrimp, trout, and Pacific salmon contain some Astaxanthin from the algae they eat, its most powerful form is in capsules.

My theory is that these antioxidants are best consumed in our daily diets.  As with everything else, moderation and a healthy balance are the keys here.  If your diet is rich in the “superfoods” listed above, supplements are not necessary.