Being radical isn’t necessarily a bad thing – maybe that’s supporting a cause with unmatched zeal, or it’s wearing your hotdog costume on Broadway in mid-May despite the humidity. Regardless, being radical has changed many lives over the course of history.  Scientists might argue it’s changed EVERYONE’s life at some point – let’s examine. 

Free Radicals

While we might feel radical inside, there are real things called Free Radicals that actually do exist in each one of us.  By definition, a Free Radical is an uncharged particle or molecule and they are highly reactive.  Free Radicals are kleptomaniacs and steal atomic elements from their neighboring molecules. Like a vicious game of tag, when a Free Radical tags, or steals, an electron from his neighbor, it becomes stable while destabilizing the other.  As this process continues, the overall cell is slowly damaged, interrupting cellular processes and causing more free radicals to accumulate.  Now, let’s not vilify Free Radicals completely.  Free Radicals are beneficial in adequate amounts, as they help fight off nasty pathogens that would otherwise do greater harm.

The overall destabilization process occurs over the course of our life and is a lead contributor to the natural effects of aging.  The gradual but increasing rate of free radical build up causes our bodies to slowly deteriorate and is known as Oxidation.  Though we cannot prevent the formation of Free Radicals from stopping, we can help neutralize their effect.  Our white knights in the war against Free Radicals are called Antioxidants. 

Antioxidants

Their name denotes their existence.  Antioxidants prevent or slow down oxidation.  As such, they track down and neutralize Free Radicals with incredible success. These molecules provide the Free Radicals with the particles they need to stabilize, without becoming destabilized themselves. 

Antioxidants are found in many of the foods we eat.  For example, fruits, vegetables, eggs, dark chocolate, and green tea are all common sources of Antioxidants.  Our bodies are able to make certain Antioxidants, as well.  We’ve all been told eating sufficient fruits and vegetables help prevent such things as heart disease, cancer and other serious diseases.  The Antioxidant properties of many fruits and vegetables are part of the reason.  Without sufficient Antioxidant intake, our bodies are at risk of Oxidative Stress.  Prime examples of Antioxidants are Vitamin C, found in many of the fruits and vegetables we eat, and Glutathione, a naturally self-made Antioxidant.

Vitamin C

Due to its natural makeup, Vitamin C is an electron donor, neutralizing those Free Radicals.  This property gives Vitamin C its powerful characteristics.  Studies show that Oxidative Stress contributes to vascular disease and some cancers, making Vitamin C a champion in helping prevent both.  Vitamin C reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, increases longevity, protects against high blood pressure and general disease.  Vitamin C cannot be synthesized by the body and must be consumed through the foods we eat, such as pineapple, strawberries, kiwi, tomatoes, bell peppers and broccoli.  

Glutathione

This impressive antioxidant is synthesized by the liver, but not in sufficient amounts.  Made up of up three Amino Acids, Glutathione is touted for having many health benefits.  In addition to being an Antioxidant, Glutathione supports a healthy memory, prevents the progression of cancer, reduces liver cell damage and supports cellular function.  Men can also use Glutathione to treat male infertility and enhance sperm cell generation.

Oxidative Stress

With every breath we take, Free Radicals form, making their existence completely natural.  But, certain habits help contribute to their formation. Activities such as smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, fried food intake or even excessive exercise all contribute to an overabundance of Free Radicals.  When there are more Free Radicals than Antioxidants, our body experiences something called Oxidative Stress.  At these times, Free Radicals begin to target our DNA, body tissue and other proteins, creating chain reactions that can lead to more serious issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and more. 

As a general rule: don’t partake in unhealthy habits.  As a general observation: we are all prone to unhealthy habits.  Many enjoyable activities carry negative side-effects, so it is our responsibility to balance the good and the bad.  To do so, make sure to eat well, exercise, and if that’s is too hard, Drip Nashville can help to balance the scales.  We combine Vitamin C and Glutathione in our Radiant Drip to help protect against the effects of aging.  In addition, Glutathione is present in our Immunity Drip due to its contribution to a healthy balance of Free Radicals to ward off disease. 

Take an active part in maintaining a healthy, balanced life.