Antioxidants in health and disease

 

Antioxidants in health and disease

As part of normal cellular function, free radical production occurs continuously in all cells. However, in many diseases, excess free radical production originating from endogenous or exogenous sources could play a role. By preventing the formation of radicals, scavenging them, or promoting their decomposition, antioxidants avoid free radical-induced tissue damage. This paper discusses the fundamental chemistry of the production of free radicals in the body, the implications of tissue damage caused by free radicals, and the role of antioxidant protection mechanisms, with special regard to the development of atherosclerosis. An antioxidant can be defined as: “any substance that, when present in low concentrations compared to that of an oxidizable substrate, significantly delays or inhibits the oxidation of that substrate”. As this definition suggests, the physiological role of antioxidants is to prevent damage to cellular components arising as a consequence of chemical reactions involving free radicals. A significant body of evidence has grown in recent years supporting a central role for free radicals in many fundamental cellular reactions and indicating that in the pathophysiology of common diseases, including atherosclerosis, chronic renal failure, and diabetes mellitus, oxidative stress could be essential. The objective of this review is to consider the mechanisms involved in the formation of free radicals in the body, the consequences of tissue damage caused by free radicals, and the function of antioxidant defense systems in health and disease.

Benefits

Ø  Antioxidants, known as oxidative stress, will safeguard against the cell damage that free radicals cause.

Ø  Protects cells against premature and abnormal aging.

Ø  Helps fight age-related molecular degeneration.

Ø  It supports the body's immune system.

Ø  It reduces free radicals.

Ø  It stimulates the growth of normal cells.

Types of antioxidants:

Ø  Vitamins A, C, E.

Ø  Anthocyanins.

Ø  Beta carotene.

Ø  Catechins.

Ø  Ellagic acid.

Ø  Lycopene.

Ø  Selenium.

 

Ginger Tea Vs. Turmeric Tea: What's Better

 

Ginger Tea Vs. Turmeric Tea: What's Better

Turmeric and ginger are both from the same flowering plant family. They are widely used in cuisines worldwide and are also known for their impressive medicinal properties. The importance of these two extraordinary spices is not only endorsed in Ayurveda, but also in modern science. The health effects of these two spices are infinite, from cough and cold remedies to chronic pain and inflammation. Besides, their fat-burning properties are often vouched for. Many individuals turn to ginger or turmeric tea to improve their metabolism and speed up the process of weight loss on a quest to shed kilos. A lot of individuals swear by their performance. But the problem is that if we have to pick one of the two, then one of the two is more advantageous.

The nutrient content

Ginger and turmeric booths are derived from the same root family, but they taste different and are used in various ways when cooking cuisine.

 Turmeric, Nutritional Content

Turmeric is part of Indian cuisine that is inseparable. The yellow spice gives the food a good hue. In powdered shape, it is often used. Rarely does a raw root find a spot in the kitchen. Turmeric contains curcumin, which is an essential compound and holds many of the yellow spice's curing properties. It has important properties that are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Apart from this, other nutrients such as calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, linolenic acids, and proteins are also found in turmeric.

Ginger, nutrient content

Ginger, both powdered and natural is used in both ways. Ginger is used to adding spice as well as savory dishes to all desserts. There are numerous compounds in the ginger root, such as palmitic, oleic, capric, and linoleic acids. The key compounds responsible for the medicinal activity of the spice are Zingiberene and phenols.

​Turmeric and weight loss

Turmeric tea, which is an important feature when attempting to lose kilos, is used to cure stomach-related illnesses. Warm tea also helps to monitor the level of blood sugar, and its anti-inflammatory effects inhibit the proliferation of fat cells. Curcumin, the most essential compound contained in turmeric, is known for its fat burner activity that may be useful to speed up the process of weight loss. In over 1,600 persons, a study of 21 studies showed that curcumin consumption would help to minimize weight, BMI, and waist circumference. In addition, it also helps to regulate metabolism.

Ginger and weight loss

Ginger has compounds called shogaols and gingerols. In your body, these compounds induce many biochemical processes that aid in the weight loss process. Ginger's antioxidant effects help regulate free radicals that can battle the body's inflammation. Small experiments carried out a few years ago show that for a longer time, ginger will make a person feel fuller. Moreover, your weight loss strategy may get an additional boost if you take ginger and lemon together.

The verdict

Both ginger and turmeric contains several special compounds that have properties for metabolism-boosting and fat-burning. In addition, there is evidence to prove their efficacy. So, when attempting to lose weight, you can have some other drink. You can make tea containing both to offer an extra boost. In a glass of sugar, cook grated ginger and half a teaspoon of turmeric. Strain yourself and enjoy it.