Antioxidant It is nature’s weapon against harmful molecules called “free radicals,” which are continuously produced by the body as cells do work. These unstable molecules can damage cells as we age and cause diseases such as cancer.
Some antioxidants are made by the body, while others are obtained from the human diet, such as beta-carotene in carrots, lycopene in tomatoes, and polyphenols in grapes. All are thought to prevent and limit cell damage.oxidative stress,“It’s caused by free radicals.
But considering all their benefits, is it possible to have too much antioxidants?
According to research People who eat more antioxidant-rich fruits, vegetables, and legumes in their diets tend to have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and premature death from all causes. Therefore, it’s easy to think that increasing your intake of antioxidants, such as by taking supplements, would be beneficial. However, when compared to food, supplements can easily exceed recommended doses of antioxidants, which can actually be harmful.
Related: Does vitamin C help with colds?
The side effects of high doses of antioxidants range from mild to very serious. On the milder end, large amounts of beta-carotene are known to have the following effects: skin turns yellow or orange, which in itself is visually impressive, but not harmful.excess vitamin C may be caused by ingestion digestive system problemsdiarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, etc.
More seriously, high doses of beta-carotene Increases risk of lung cancer and cardiovascular disease This includes people who are already at high risk for these diseases, such as current and former smokers and people who have been exposed to asbestos.There is also evidence from Animal and human tissue research This suggests that antioxidants may promote the growth and metastasis of some cancers.
Additionally, high doses vitamin E The supplement shows: interact with certain drugsaspirin, warfarin, tamoxifen, cyclosporine A, etc. Increased risk of premature death For people with chronic illnesses.
These studies do suggest that consuming excessive amounts of antioxidants can have negative effects on the body, but why? One reason is that small amounts of free radicals can That could actually be useful.
“There is a lot of evidence that free radicals play a beneficial role in physiological processes.” Ismail Rahelsaid a professor of pharmacology at the University of British Columbia in an email to Live Science.Free radicals at low concentrations Helps cells grow and is part of the body’s defense mechanism against disease. they again, It metabolizes or breaks down drugs and participates in intercellular communication..
However, “taking too many antioxidants can disrupt these normal and essential processes, leading to undesirable effects.” james kellerProfessor Emeritus and Chair of the University of Alberta’s School of Pharmacy and Adjunct Professor at the University of New Mexico’s College of Pharmacy, said in an email to Live Science.
How can you avoid overdosing on antioxidants? Keller recommends not taking supplements and sticking to a healthy diet.
“Eating a balanced diet that includes sufficient amounts of fruits and vegetables will ensure you’re getting the right amount of antioxidants,” says Koehler. “Nutritional supplements are rarely needed unless you have not had a proper diet for a long period of time or have certain illnesses.” For example, supplements may be recommended if: . Ataxia with isolated vitamin E deficiency (AVED), a rare inherited neurodegenerative disease.
Raher points out that exercise is also important. The body can produce its own antioxidants, Exercise increases the production of this built-in antioxidant. For your muscles, heart, and liver.
If you are considering antioxidant supplements, please consult your health care professional. It is important to be aware of the dosage of supplements and their harmony with daily dietary intake, as excessive intake can cause toxicity. It’s also important to know if your supplements may interact with any medications you’re taking.
When it comes to antioxidants, it is important to consider a concept called “.hormesisThis is when low doses of a substance have beneficial effects, but high doses have harmful effects. Or, as Koehler says, “If a little is good, a lot is not.”
This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice.
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