Everybody knows that the human body needs oxygen to survive. But oxygen in the form of free radicals is quite harmful, for it breaks down cells and contributes to chromic disease as the body ages. It’s about the same thing as metal rusting when it comes into contact with water. That’s the bad news.
The good news is that the “rusting” of our bodies is not inevitable and can actually be prevented, say researchers, whose conclusions from numerous studies suggest that anti-oxidants, the nutrients found mainly in fruit and vegetables, may prevent the onset of disease and can even slow the aging process.
For example, in the Journal of Cellular Biology, a recent article pointed to a relationship between certain antioxidants and the protection from cervical cancer. The researchers found a higher rate of cervical cancer among women deficient in vitamin A and beta-carotene, both major antioxidants found in yellow, orange and green vegetables. Also, women who contracted cervical cancer were found to have lower-than-average levels of beta-carotene, vitamin E and C in their blood. The Journal concluded that it is wise to encourage consumption of more fruits and vegetable high in antioxidants.
However, an argument for antioxidant supplementation can also be drawn from another study of 100 men published in the prestigious Cancer Research. Half of the men were given 100 mg. of vitamin C, 280 mg. of vitamin E and 25 mg. of beta-carotene over a twenty-week period. The other half was given a placebo. Those taking the supplements showed decreased oxidative damage to their lymphocyte DNA. This appears to suggest that antioxidant supplementation boosts the immune system and prevents the onset of disease caused by free radicals, such as cancer.
Echinacea can also fight off a myriad of ills and numerous studies show that it bolsters the activity of the immune system and is an excellent defense against infections. Knowledgeable physicians recommend echinacea for young children prone to ear infections.
Pycnogenol, often nicknamed “the supreme antioxidant,” is known as the defender of the circulatory system. Studies in Great Britain, France and Germany have shown that the proanthocyanidins in Pycnogenol improve peripheral circulation, revive declining capillary activity, and fortify failing blood vessels. Pycnogenol is also used to mend varicose veins and aids in preventing bruising.
Pycnogenol has been extensively tested throughout the world and is considered completely safe and non-toxic.
Patients suffering from a variety of heart problems, including angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy, hyperthyroid heart failure and mitral valve prolapse have shown extraordinary clinical improvement when given CoEnzyme Q-10, another major antioxidant, which is also a vital enzyme.
