Antioxidants

Antioxidants are natural chemicals found in the body. Free radicals are the results of processes in cells that can damage cell walls, structure and genetic material. Antioxidants help prevent this from occurring. They occur naturally in the body and can also be added with diet and supplements.

Antioxidants are proven to be beneficial to the body to help ward off disease and illness. Serious diseases like heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers may be prevented with proper antioxidant levels. Heart disease, for example, is reported to be preventable by taking vitamin E. Vitamin C, which can help control blood pressure. In addition to preventing diseases, it is believed that antioxidants can help slow the effects of aging such as loss of muscle.

Antioxidants are specific vitamins (such as selenium, vitamin A, C and vitamin E) and plant and animal compounds (bioflavonoids such as grape seed extract, quercetin, coenzyme Q-10, ginkgo biloba) that are responsible for maintaining health. Supplements such as these all contain antioxidants. Supplements are widely available at health food stores, grocery stores and pharmacies. They come in forms such as tablets, capsules and soft gels and are taken orally. It is recommended that supplements be taken to enhance the natural diet, not replace it. In the case of pets suffering from illness and under treatment of a prescribed medication, before adding antioxidant supplements to the diet, a consultation with a veterinarian is necessary. Holistic veterinarians will be able to recommend required doses and suggest dietary changes that will best compliment treatments already in progress.

Although supplements can be beneficial, studies indicate that they are not as effective as eating fruits and vegetables where antioxidants are naturally present. Certain foods and herbs such as garlic and rosemary contain antioxidants. Although some foods may be safe for human consumption, always ensure that the foods you feed your pets are safe for them as well.