Other Potent Sources of Antioxidants

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) February 19, 2011 --

Another new powerful antioxidant is the açai berry from the Amazon. The açai has been touted as one of the super food of the world. It contains many of the phytonutrients which we have discussed above. It is a great source of anthocyanins, which again help protect the heart, prevent blood clots, relax the blood vessels, and has antiviral and antiallergenic properties. It has more than 30 times the amount of anthocyanins than red wine. It has one of the highest ORAC values for berries. The essential fatty acids in this berry (essential fatty acids are ones required by our bodies to function that have to be provided by diet) include oleic acid (a monounsaturated omega-9 acid) and linoleic acid (polyunsaturated omega-6).

These fatty acids help lower LDL-C oxidation, maintain HDL-C levels, and increase the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, D, and K. This berry also has a protein profile like eggs (it contains all of the same amino acids) and is high in fiber, both of which are important for maintaining our health. I t also has COX-2 inhibition and can limit generalized inflammation in the body. The berry is loaded with macro minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium and many trace minerals like chromium and copper. The açai also contains naturally occurring B-vitamins, vitamin E, and vitamin C. It is related to saw palmetto, a natural remedy for prostate enlargement, and may also have the same action. The benefits of this berry are just starting to be realized.

Another important source of phytonutrients and antioxidants are blueberries and dark grapes. Blueberries also have a very high ORAC value and have been studied many times as a potent antioxidant. The berries are fat free and very low in calories. This berry also has a large amount of anthocyanins (the deep pigmentation color). It is easy to determine which foods have high anthocyanins because they are the last ones to spoil in your refrigerator. Blueberries have shown to have anticancer activity against cervical and breast cancer and perhaps other cancers. Ellagic acid is a powerful anti-carcinogen (prevent cancer) which is present in large amounts in blueberries. Blueberries also have a high anti-inflammatory property and can stop damage to blood vessels like chocolate and açai do. Daily servings of blueberries are the only treatment known that can reverse some of the motor function association with aging.

The phytonutrients in blueberries seem to speed up neuron communications and help with balance as well as memory. Blueberries can prevent cell death and the loss of nerve growth factors, resulting in brain function improvement. Blueberries can increase the levels of the naturally occurring antioxidant glutathione, which can help decrease the progression of dementia and even Parkinson’s disease. Blueberries have been used for years as a natural remedy for diabetes because they can lower blood sugar levels. A very important chemical in our brain which helps the nerve cells communicate is dopamine. Blueberries help the body release more dopamine, resulting in better concentration, decreased depression, and improved memory. Vision is even improved with the ingestion of blueberries and other antioxidants. Blueberries have even been found to help prevent urinary tract infections. They are loaded with vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and potassium. Dark grapes have been shown also be high in flavonoids, anthocyanins (4 times stronger than vitamin E), as well as nonbioflavonoids (resveratrol). Dark grapes have been studied in detail and are well known to lower blood pressure, improve diabetes, and improve memory.

acai berry     Adam Paul Green     antioxidants     Darke Chocolate     exercise fitness     healthy chocolate     mxi corp     Xocai