We all know what it’s like to get run down and sick over winter. Antioxidants are fabulous for our bodies and can help keep us healthy.

Here are 5 antioxidants to help you this winter!

1. Vitamin D

The best source of vitamin D for the body is obtained through its internal synthesis as a result of unprotected skin exposure to the sun. Therefore, as we tend to spend far less time in the sun during the winter months, the risk of a vitamin D deficiency increases significantly.

If your vitamin D levels are low, it is worth considering a supplement. This is because food contains very limited amounts of vitamin D, and unprotected sun exposure does have its risks.

Vitamin D plays an intrinsic role in bone health integrity, with research demonstrating that it assists in the development, growth and mineralisation of a healthy skeleton^[i]. But that’s not all – Vitamin D also plays an important part in immune, nervous system, heart and kidney health.

2. Aged garlic extract

Over 700 scientific papers have been written on Aged Garlic Extract finding that it has numerous benefits for your immune system, cell protection and to enhance your health, energy and endurance.

Aged Garlic Extract is better absorbed in comparison to other forms of garlic due to its improved bioavailability and it can be taken preventatively, particularly in cold season to assist in reducing the duration of an illness.

Of all of its many benefits however, new research has suggested that it may help to reverse the fatty deposits around the heart, reduce calcification in our arteries and lower blood pressure. This is due to the aging process that transforms garlic into a powerful antioxidant.

The study also found that Aged Garlic Extract decreased diastolic blood pressure and slowed the progression of coronary artery calcification. This may mean that aged garlic may prove useful for patients who are at high risk of future cardiovascular events.

3. Theracurmin

Over 4000 scientific articles support the anti-inflammatory action of Curcumin, the active compound found naturally in Turmeric.

Curcumin has been shown to provide both powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it useful for reducing inflammation in many areas of the body including the joints, digestive and nervous systems.

Turmeric has been consumed for medicinal purposes in India for centuries, however as a supplement for humans its benefits have been limited due to poor intestinal absorption of Curcumin.

Theracurmin provides curcumin in a form which has been shown to have enhanced bioavailability, being absorbed 27 times more effectively than standard Curcumin.  This enhanced bioavailability assists in maximising the anti-inflammatory power of the spice, providing a natural alternative for sufferers of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

4. Ubiquinol

Ubiquinol is the most active and reduced form of Coenzyme Q10. Found naturally in the body, Ubiquinol works by promoting energy production in the cells of the body and delivers it to the organs. As we age, stress or over exert ourselves, our natural Ubiquinol levels decline and may need to be replenished, particularly if you are finding that you are feeling foogy, fatigued and are struggling to bounce back. Ubiquinol also helps with oxidative stress, protecting cells from free radical damage, and assisting with the neutralizing of bad LDL cholesterol.^[1]

5. Glutathione

Glutathione is an important cellular antioxidant that plays a pivotal role in regulating oxidative stress, detoxification and immune function.

Glutathione and its building blocks are found in foods such as cruciferous vegetables (e.g. broccoli, cauliflower, spinach), avocados, eggs and whey protein. Cruciferous vegetables also stimulate specific enzymes in the body which support glutathione’s functions. Consumption of these foods is an essential part of a healthy diet, plus glutathione can be taken in supplement form for individuals requiring higher doses. 

Do you take any of these antioxidants already? Any other ones you’d like to share?

[1] Kaneka Ubiquinol Fact Sheet
^[i] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK45503/