As you may have read in a past Longevity By Nature blog, free radicals can be harmful to the body. They enter our system in the foods and liquids we ingest. They also infiltrate us through the air we breathe and when we exercise. Because they are everywhere, free radicals can overwhelm the body’s ability to maintain the cellular structure of your DNA, or more importantly, your telomeres. If you aren’t familiar with what telomeres are and why they are important, check out this blog.
Telomeres can shorten over time due to high amounts of free radicals, and the result of shortened telomeres is a shorter life expectancy. Long story short, the longer your telomeres are, the more likely you are to live longer.
But how can we protect our telomeres?
What Damage Do Free Radicals Cause
Oxygen breaks down when it enters the body, releasing electrons, and they naturally pair off. Those unpaired molecules become free radicals, and they can harm the structure of your cells if too many are present. This process of cell destruction or the imbalance of free radicals versus antioxidants in your body is oxidative stress.Which Foods Can Help in This Fight?
Taking better care of your body by eating a diet rich in antioxidants is one way to lengthen your telomeres. Foods rich with antioxidants help against free radicals, and by simply adding more antioxidants to your diet you’ll help lengthen telomeres naturally. These foods include:- Blueberries, Strawberries, and Raspberries. These healthy fruits are a great snack rich in antioxidants.
- Artichokes, Kale, Red Cabbage, Beets, and Beans.These vegetables and legumes are great additions to your menu.
- Pecans and Dark Chocolate. These snacks, even the sweet stuff, can help your body.
