Fight the Aging Process with These Five Nutritional Supplements

Free radicals in the body speed up the agings process, leading to premature wrinkles, sagging skin and even serious health conditions. The body is continually making free radicals as part of the metabolic process, which means that it's impossible to avoid these harmful molecules. Antioxidants combat free radicals and can even reverse some of their harmful effects, making them extremely valuable in the fight against agings. Bioflavonoids Bioflavonoids is a term used to describe a wide range of compounds, including anthocyanins, isoflavones, flavonols, and phytochemicals. These compounds act as antioxidants and help to reduce inflammation. The compounds used in bioflavonoid supplements vary greatly from one product to another, so it's important to do your research before choosing a supplement. Only buy products from reputable companies that are transparent about the ingredients used in their bioflavonoids. Selenium Selenium is a mineral and antioxidant that has antibacterial properties and provides an impressive array of health benefits, including cancer protection. Selenium is also essential for healthy skin and the prevention of some skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. Selenium supplements are available from most health food stores. However, selenium is usually best taken as part of a multivitamin and mineral complex, as it works together with other nutrients to fight free radical damage. Vitamin C Vitamin C is one of the most well-known antioxidants and is sometimes used as an ingredient in anti-agings skin creams. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in fighting the agings process, as it is needed for the production of collagen and healthy connective tissue. Vitamin C also helps to maintain smooth skin, flexible joints and healthy blood vessels. As Vitamin C cannot be stored in the body, you need to ensure a continuous supply, either through food or supplements. Vitamin C supplements are safe for most people, although high-strength supplements can cause digestive problems. Zinc Zinc is a mineral and antioxidant that is needed for many different functions, including cognitive, sexual and immune function. Low levels of zinc are increasingly common and can lead to reduced immune function, frequent infections and slow wound healing. Zinc is often combined with vitami C and added to remedies for colds, flu and coughs, as these two nutrients work together to support the immune system and prevent infection. Zinc supplements can be taken on their own or as part of a mineral complex. Vitamin E Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect against free radical damage, cardiovascular disease, degenerative eye conditions and even Alzheimer's disease. Vitamin E is also essential for keeping the skin looking youthful and healthy. In addition, it can help to prevent scarring and improve the skin's ability to heal. The quality and effectiveness of vitami E supplements can vary greatly, so it's best to choose products from a trusted company. Free radicals are produced naturally by the body. Exposure to UV rays, environmental pollutants, toxic food additives, cigarette smoke and many other substances also increase free radicals in the body. Antioxidants, including bioflavonoids, selenium, vitami C, zinc and vitami E -- all of which can be found in private label supplements -- combat free radicals, which accelerate the agings process.