When you think of antioxidants, you probably think of their well–proven anti–cancer and anti–aging benefits. For example, lycopene, an antioxidant nutrient that gives tomatoes and watermelon their red color, has been shown to help prevent macular degeneration, the most common cause of eyesight deterioration in the elderly.
But Weight, There´s More
The benefits of antioxidants don´t stop there, however. Exciting new research indicates that certain antioxidants may help in the fight against weight gain and related conditions. For example, researchers from Arkansas recently discovered that rats fed a high–fat diet supplemented with anthocyanins, a class of antioxidants that are natural pigments in various kinds of berries, gained significantly less weight than rats fed an identical diet lacking anthocyanins. Interestingly, whole berries did not have the same effect as the supplement.
This study builds on previous research showing similar benefits from other antioxidants. A recent Taiwanese study found that flavonoids and phenolic acids caused fat cells to produce lower levels of triglycerides. (High levels of blood triglycerides are a major risk factor for heart disease.) This area of research is still in its early stages, but it holds great promise for the future.
Action Steps
As for what you should do about it today, that´s easy: supplement a diet that´s high in antioxidant–rich fruits and vegetables with a quality antioxidant supplement like our Greenergy. With its potent blend of antioxidant superfoods, phytonutrients, probiotics, and digestive enzymes, Greenergy will slow the aging process and reduce your risk of developing some types of cancer, and even help you to lose weight.