Antioxidants And Heart Health - What's The Relation Between Two?

Antioxidants that we get from consuming particular foods are essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Generally, fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts are rich in antioxidants. But keep in mind that antioxidants from supplements don’t have the same benefits as the antioxidants from food.

According to research, there is no conclusive evidence to show that taking Vitamin E and beta-carotene supplements are beneficial for the heart.

What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants are substances that exist in the form of minerals and vitamins in foods. They protect your body from diseases by getting rid of free radicals from the body, which are responsible for illnesses. When the quantity of antioxidants in the body is inadequate then these free radicals in the body damage healthy cells. These free radicals contribute to the oxidation of low-density cholesterol (bad cholesterol). When oxidation of LDL takes place, plaque accumulates in the arteries resulting in slowing down the blood flow to the heart.

The link between antioxidant supplements and heart health

A study was conducted by researchers to find the link between antioxidants and heart health. 81788 patients were given Vitamin E and 138, 113 patients were given beta-carotene. The aim was to study the mortality rates from cardiovascular problems.

They found that Vitamin E did not lower mortality and also lower the risk of cardiovascular-related deaths in a significant way. This result was observed irrespective of the dosage of the vitamin used.

Beta-carotene on the other hand slightly increased cardiovascular-related deaths. The researchers, therefore, advocated that beta-carotene supplements should not be encouraged.

However, this study was conducted on patients who were given supplements. Foods that are rich in antioxidants are recommended. There are many benefits that the body can only derive from food and not from supplements. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants has been linked to a lower incidence of cardiovascular problems.

Good sources of antioxidants

Some good sources of antioxidants are leafy vegetables, papaya, seeds, nuts and whole grains. In addition to eating these foods, you should also reduce smoking and alcohol consumption to reduce your risk of heart disease.