Every day we are exposed to constant barrage of free radicals. These free radicals can result from the following sources: stress, radiation from the sun, pollution, several toxins, and poor food choices. The free radicals are highly destructive molecules generated inside our bodies from several metabolic processes. Because they are missing an electron, they destroy healthy molecules by stealing their electrons and making them into free radicals too. This causes a chain reaction of damage to various parts of our cells. We cannot avoid these free radicals but we can neutralize their destructive action.
Is proper diet not enough?
A healthy diet helps protect our body from these free radicals. Food, particularly fruits and vegetables, supplies many type of antioxidants, which "donate" their extra electrons to neutralise free radicals. Eating a variety of healthy food also gives our body the nutrients it needs to repair and regenerate damaged cells. But maintaining a healthy diet is difficult. Researchers believe that supplementary antioxidants are necessary for combating free radicals in addition to the body's normal defense systems.
To receive optimal amounts of vitamins and minerals daily, for example: 400IU of Vitamin E, you need to eat about 33lbs of spinach, 1.2lbs or sunflower seeds, 5.2lbs of wheat germ, 2.2lbs of almonds, or 1quart of safflower oil. These exaggerated amounts of food to obtain the optimal amount of Vitamin E is near impossibility and has to be done daily.
Should we take vitamins and supplements?
Taking vitamins and nutritional supplement does not have to replace a healthy diet. But proper supplementation can bridge the gap between what our body needs in optimal nutrition, and what most of us actually get from food.
Research has shown that many people simple may not follow recommended guidelines for healthy eating. Fast-food and convenience-food consumption, snacking, and soft-drink use have all increased, and it has been shown that many people may not meet even the basic RDA's (Recommended Dietary Allowances) for key nutrition.
Likewise, many children do not get the nutrition they need, and their poor nutrition can lead to health problems later in life. Poor nutrition during the developmental years can retard growth and delay sexual maturation, while proper nutrition at this age helps to give adolescents the foundation for good health for the rest of their lives.
To provide their bodies with adequate amounts of all the essential nutrients, parents and their children should follow a well-balanced, proactive nutritional plan that includes high-quality vitamin and mineral supplementation.