Oxidative stress is caused by overproduction of free radicals in the body & reduced amount of antioxidants to combat the oxidation. Free radicals occur as the body converts glucose to energy. However, this is not the only way. There are a lot of environmental factors such as exercise, eating foods cooked with oil at high temperatures & detoxification of pollutants & pesticides. These free radicals if occurring regularly can damage your cells. Our DNA or genetic makeup has been linked as a possible cause of cancer. However, having high antioxidants in our diet gives our body required vitamins to combat & reduce production of free radicals.
As discussed in our earlier blogs, exercise creates physical stress & ramps up production of free radicals. Therefore it is always suggested to preload with the required amount of antioxidant containing food to eliminate the risk of creating excess free radicals( the existence of a high number of free radicals can damage our cells).
Specifically for people suffering from type diabetes, having high amounts of fruits & vegetables in the diet can reduce oxidative stress & inflammation. This is really important since people suffering from diabetes have high levels of oxidative stress & inflammation due to fluctuating glucose/sugar levels. A healthy & genetically aligned diet has become all the more important since a lot of people today have adopted a diet high in processed foods & refined sugar which ultimately increases oxidative stress & inflammation.
It is important to note that our body itself produces antioxidants but they are not enough to combat the spread of free radicals produced due to environment & lifestyle. Our genetic makeup plays a vital role in determine our need for antioxidants & how our body utilises these vitamins.
By undergoing a genetic test, you will receive comprehensive information related to your individual genetic profile pertaining to your antioxidant intake that will help you in learning how much antioxidant you should have in your diet.
What foods are high in antioxidants?
Antioxidants are found in a variety of fruits, vegetables & spices. You should consider including the following food items in your diet to combat the production of free radicals in your body.
- Fruits: Citrus fruits- lemons & oranges, blueberries, raspberries, apples, grapes, tomatoes,
- Vegetables: Carrots, Sweet Potato, Spinach, Broccoli, Cabbage, Kale, Asparagus
- Spices & herbs: Green Tea, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Ginger, Cloves.
You can use these food items to create a delicious meal packed with all vital nutrients to upkeep your health.
Discover your personal traits & learn about your genetic makeup to antioxidants intake. By subscribing to our membership & preventive health solutions, you will get access to various resources, guidance, training, coaching & workshops covering the impact of your genetic predisposition to various aspects of health that will help you maximise your fitness potential & improve your health. Sign up for our membership here.
