Antioxidants are important substances that help prevent or slow the deterioration of cells in the body. They do this by fighting the damage that free radicals cause in the body.

Free radicals, the basis of oxidative stress

Free radicals are aggressive substances that can cause damage to our cells and tissues. Free radicals are constantly being formed in the body, for example by breaking down nutrients. 

However, free radicals are also created by external influences such as. 

- smoking, 

- stress, 

- alcohol consumption, 

- the consumption of junk food, 

- drugs,

- la pollution. 

All of these influences can lead to an excess of free radicals in the body, which creates the phenomenon of oxidative stress. This one increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, having damage to the nervous system as well as other health problems. Therefore, it is very important to protect our body from excess free radicals and fight oxidation with the help of antioxidants.

What is an antioxidant?

The immune system itself does a lot to fight free radicals, certain enzymes bind to free radicals and break them down. Unfortunately this is not enough, so the body needs the help of antioxidants. 

An antioxidant is not a substance but a collective name for substances that have an antioxidant effect in the body. For example, we will cite:

- vitamins, 

- trace elements, 

- flavonoids, 

- herbs 

- and other bioactive substances.

The term "antioxidant" literally means "anti-oxidation" and thus describes the function of these substances. The most important function of these substances is therefore the expulsion and elimination of free radicals in the blood, tissues and organs, thus preventing damage. In this way, antioxidants contribute to our health and better resistance and help slow down the aging process.

Where to find antioxidants?

Antioxidants can be found in many different types of foods, especially fruits and brightly colored vegetables that contain many of them, such as: 

- blueberries, 

- raspberries, 

- cherries, 

- the kiwi, 

- mango, 

- pears, 

- grapefruit, 

- pineapple, 

- broccoli, 

- kale, 

- spinach, 

- tomatoes,

- beets. 

Other foods such as herbs, nuts, legumes and some herbal teas also contain antioxidants.

Supplementing with antioxidants, a gift to your body

To get enough antioxidants, it's important to consume a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods every day. But if you want to get the most benefit from the effect of antioxidants on your body, you can also turn to antioxidant supplements. 

The Phycosens from LifeSpan is a natural dietary supplement made with a concentrate of phycocyanin, the blue pigment in spirulina. This algae, also known as a "superfood," has been known for millennia for its outstanding nutritional qualities. It also has the advantage of being easily assimilated by the body. 

In addition to its antioxidant properties, phycocyanin is highly valued by the public due to its contribution of protein, minerals, trace elements, lipids, fiber and vitamins (A, B and E).