Blog number 2 on why we talk about fruits and veggies being important! Antioxidants are nutrients in our foods which can prevent or slow the oxidative damage you do to your body. When your body cells use oxygen, they naturally produce free radicals (by-products) which can cause damage. Antioxidants "eat" these free radicals and prevent & repair damage done by them. Many health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer etc are can all somewhat be related to oxidative damage. Antioxidants may also enhance immune defense and therefore lower the risk of cancer and infection.
But wait! You're thinking I'm young, healthy, athletic - what does this have to do with me? Let's look back at the second sentence: when your body cells use oxygen...for example, when you work out...hmmm. As an athlete, you're constantly producing free radicals - everytime you workout! So, how can you counteract these effects or get rid of them? ANTIOXIDANTS!
Where can I find antioxidants?
The most popular answer is fruits and vegetables. So what do we have for you in the weight room and dining hall that can fit in this category and help us get our antioxidants. Three things: fruit and salad bar in the dining hall, fruit provided in the mornings in the dining hall or locker room, and the smoothies (just in case you needed another reason to enjoy all three). The main goal is to aim for 5 a day - that's a combination of 5 fruits and/or veggies, not 5 of each.
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