If you are not testing then you are guessing, and guessing leads to error. Antioxidants reduce the effects of free radicals. Free radicals can be responsible for disease, aging, cancer, heart issues, tissue damage and illness.
DNA testing will tell you how strong your natural protective systems are at removing free radicals. If you know this information then it will allow you to make better nutrition choices. If you have a high ability to protect against free radicals your current intake of antioxidants may be sufficient for your needs. If you have a low ability to protect against free radicals then you will need to increase your antioxidant intake. It is necessary for you to do this so that you can neutralise free radicals.
An antioxidant is a molecule that can inhibit the oxidation of other molecules. Antioxidants help fight against oxidation. Oxidation is a process that can happen to all of your cells in your body. An example of this is when you cut your skin; it can become raw and inflamed.
The gene Manganese Superoxide Dismutase (mnsod) encodes an anti-oxidant enzyme (SOD2) that can protect cells from oxidative damage. By doing DNA testing you will know your result for this enzyme. If you know your result then you can prevent or delay some types of cell damage. This is one of the reasons why DNA testing is so important.
Antioxidant sources can be found in vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Your body does not create a lot of vitamins so you need to get your intake from your diet. The foods that are highest in vitamin A include spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, carrots, squash and dried apricots. The foods that are highest in vitamin C include peppers, guavas, kiwi, strawberries, tomatoes and papaya. The foods that are highest in vitamin E include almonds, sunflower seeds, avocados, shrimp and rainbow trout.
I would advise that you eat a wide variety of these foods throughout the day. You can include them in your main meals and have them as a healthy snack. The exact intake you need will only be known if you have your DNA tested.
Earlier this year we welcomed Nicola Marsh, registered dietitian and sports nutritionist to our team of experts at Matt Roberts Evolution.
Moving into the autumn months often has a “back to business” feel to it and this is the attitude I like to encourage people to apply when it comes to their nutrition and exercise.
When trying to lose weight, fluctuations on the scale can make or break someone’s day, week, and even their diet.
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