The Network of Antioxidants...

Here are some of my favourite points on the antioxidant and its network:

• There are 5 well-known antioxidants in the network that work together in synergy. They are: Vitamins C and E, glutathione, lipoic acid and Coenzyme Q10 (Co Q10). The vitamins are not produced in the body whereas the others in the list are.
  
  
• The members in the antioxidant network are often found to enhance the benefits of one another.
  
  
• It seems that in Europe, lipoic acid is even used in the treatment of diabetic complications. That is a testimonial of its power. Lipoic acid is thought to be the most versatile and powerful member of the network enhancing the power of all the other members.
  
  
• For health buffs who engage in exercise, it pays to take note that rigorous physical activities depletes vitamin E and the other antioxidants. Therefore, they need to be replaced.
  
  
• In the cell, a sub-cellular structure called the mitochondria converts nutrients into energy through oxidation. It is a natural and essential process but, on the downside, it produces free radical also.
  
  
• A good point to note is that good health depends on the RIGHT BALANCE between the yin and yang of antioxidants and free radicals. Here is where the body's defence network of antioxidants play a significant part.
  
  
• Vitamin E that has been spent on cleaning up free radicals can be recycled back into antioxidants by CoQ10 or vitamin C. Electrons are donated by the recycling antioxidants turning it back to its antioxidant form. This is an example of how the members of the network enhance each other.
  
  
• Human cell membranes are mostly made of fats and the cell insides is primarily water. CoQ10 and vitamin E are fat-soluble so they protect the membrane. However, the watery portion and the blood itself, are protected by water soluble antioxidants like glutathione and vitamin C.
  
  
• Antioxidants give protection to the DNA in genes. Without this protection, the genes come under fire from free radicals. The expressions of genes are also regulated with the help of antioxidants. They switch genes on when it is required or turn it off appropriately. Genes which are attacked and 'damaged' by free radicals give the wrong instructions to your cells. The cells then 'misbehave' causing illnesses.