Monday August 18 / 208

Monday August 18 / 2008

12:10: The Health Roundup with Jay McQueen.

12:13-12:45: The dentist is in the house! The President of the Ontario Dental Association, based right here in Hamilton, is in the house to take calls about all things dental related!
Guest: Dr. Larry Levin, New President of the Ontario Dental Association. (in-studio)

12:45: Rexall Radio Health Matters segment.
Guest: Irene Hogan.
Antioxidants;

An Antioxidant is a molecule capable of slowing or preventing the oxidation of other molecules. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that transfers electrons from a substance to an oxidizing agent. Oxidation reactions produce free radicals, which start the chain reaction that damages cells, which can cause cancer. Antioxidants terminate these chain reactions by removing free radical intermediates. Because oxidation is a naturally occurring process within the body, a balance with antioxidants must to examined to maintain good health. Antioxidants include beta-carotene, lycopene, vitamins C, E, and A. Minerals such as selenium that is required for the activity of antioxidant enzyme, phytochemicals such as carotenoids anf polyphenols and synthetic compounds such as BHA and BHT. Plant foods, such as fruits and vegetables and whole grains contain many components that are beneficial to human health. Research supports that some of these foods as part of an overall diet have the potential to delay the onset of many age-related diseases. These observations have led to continuing research aimed at identifying specific bioactive components in foods, such as antioxidants.
Antioxidants are present in foods by their distinctive colours. The deep red in cherries, cranberries and tomatoes, the orange in carrots, the yellow in corn, mangoes and saffron. The blue-purple of blueberries blackberries and grapes. The consumption of antioxidants is to provide protection against oxidative damage and contribute positive health benefits. Environmental exposures like tobacco, pollution and the intake of processed foods can damage your cells and do play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases. By ensuring antioxidants are a part of your diet, either by whole foods or supplements, they can help enhance the immune defenses and therefore lower your risk of infection. The bottom line, researcher indicates that there are overall health benefits from antioxidants in your diet. Eat foods rich in colour and dark green leafy vegetables.

Rexall Blog Reporter #0202 Nadine Janacek