Antioxidants are nutrients and enzymes that can help to prevent and repair damage to your body’s tissue. Unlike products that we apply to the outside of the skin like sunscreens and moisturizers, antioxidants can protect your skin from the inside out by guarding your cells from damage. Antioxidants slow or prevent the effect of free radicals, which start oxidation, a process that causes damage from oxygen that can lead to cell dysfunction.

If you’ve seen a peeled apple turn brown, you’ve seen oxidation in action. As antioxidants block the effects of free radicals, they themselves are oxidized. This is why it’s important to constantly replenish your supply of antioxidants.

Here are 3 antioxidants to remember:

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a preventive and reparative antioxidant. Mighty C guards against oxidative damage and actively stimulates collagen production to the max. Eating ample amounts of food loaded with vitamin C is key.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an interceptive and stabilizing antioxidant. It supports the skin’s natural defense systems and neutralizes rogue free radicals caused by the sun’s rays. When it comes to foods rich in antioxidant vitamin E, think oils and healthy fats: olives and olive oil, flax seeds and oil, pumpkin seeds and oil, sunflower seeds and oil, as well as almonds, hazelnuts, avocados, and sweet potatoes.

Coenzyme Q10: Coenzyme Q10 is a natural antioxidant in the body that helps cells grow and protects them from the ravages of cancer. A drop in natural levels of coenzyme Q10 that occurs in our later years is thought to contribute to the skin aging process. Without adequate coenzyme Q10 , our cells can’t function properly. Increase your coenzyme Q10 powers with ample servings of whole grains and fish or try taking it as a supplement.

Take the Next Step

If you have further questions about Skin Conditions, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at The Langdon Center in Guilford, CT. Call us at (203) 453-8625 or fill out our convenient online contact form.