'Exercising' Your Antioxidants

I realize that most of us are aware of at least some of the health benefits of antioxidants. My blog posting from 4/26/10 gives an overview of the importance of antioxidants and includes a recommendation at the end for when it's best to take antioxidants, including right after vigorous exercise. A bit more about that...since so many of my friends & family members are really getting into serious exercise routines & training for marathons---you're my inspiration!

Dr. Kenneth Cooper (considered the 'father' of aerobics---founded The Cooper Institute in Dallas at the Cooper Aerobics Center) states that "antioxidant supplements are mandatory for adults who exercise." (Dr. Kenneth Cooper's Antioxidant Revolution: 1994; Thomas Nelson Publishers) This is due in part to the increase in oxygen reactions in our bodies that occur with exercise, especially high-intensity exercise. These oxygen reactions can lead to free radical production, which can, as the April blog posting explains, damage cells and accelerate the progression of cancer, cardiovascular disease and age-related diseases.

Dr. Russell Blaylock echoes Dr. Cooper's recommendation by explaining it this way: "The important thing to remember is that the number of free radicals generated during exercise depends on the intensity of the exercise and its duration...Unless antioxidants in the diet are proportionately increased, intense exercise can actually do more harm than good." (Health & Nutrition Secrets That Can Save Your Life: 2006; Health Press)

Now don't even think about using this as the perfect excuse to avoid exercising---there are WAY too many health benefits derived from regular exercise. :) The key is to give your body what it needs to 'deal with' the effects of exercising---and it's as simple as eating afoods high in antioxidants or taking a comprehensive antioxidant supplement (preferably an organic, whole food version).

Foods high in antioxidants: raisins, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, plums, spinach (raw is highest), kale, broccoli, avocado, alfalfa sprouts, sweet potatoes, carrots, peas...most fruits & veggies have antioxidants...these are some of the 'heavy hitters.'

My family & I incorporate many of these fruits & veggies into our diet (juicing helps!) and take a whole-food, organic antioxidant juice blend as well. Very inexpensive 'health insurance' we have built into our daily lives.

Back to the books---God's blessings on your health!
Sana