All antioxidants act as anti-inflammatories, but not all phytonutrients are necessarily antioxidants. There are other important factors at work. Although antioxidants are an important part of the picture, the antioxidant hypothesis is an oversimplification of the biochemical story. Antioxidants do neutralize free radicals, but we now know that they do much more. Both antioxidants and phytonutrients have the power to alter the genetic instructions found in our genes’ DNA, which holds our genetic blueprint. Antioxidants and other nutrients can also act as signaling mechanisms in the cell. By means of gene expression, they upregulate the cell’s natural protective and regulatory functions, which then promote the visible differences that we are searching for.
How do you add antioxidants to your diet?
I am fanatical about antioxidants since I learnt about their effect on the skin but reading your article even eplains it better – “upregulation” of cellular and rgulatory functions.
I have been taking ALA for the last two years at 200mg daily. Is this enough? I also take the Fish oil and what do you think.
I am 44 and West African black living in the USA.
Thanks
Congratulations- your diligence will pay off! Taking ALA will help your body’s cells behave more youthfully and encourage the production of other important antioxidants like Glutathione. Regarding specific dosages, it is always best to check with your physician.