Antioxidants

Antioxidants overview

What are the benefits of antioxidants?

There is broad scientific consensus that antioxidants may support the body's natural cell protection system, and help to protect against what is called "oxidative damage".

Although oxygen is essential to life, there is some evidence that oxidative damage to body tissues may be a contributor to cell ageing and degeneration. Antioxidants may help delay these processes.

Types of antioxidants

Antioxidants belong to very different groups, the primary ones of which are vitamins C and E, carotenoids (beta-carotene, lycopene), minerals (zinc, selenium), and polyphenols (there are approximately 8000 different polyphenols).

As each antioxidant has a specific mode of action, and its very own antioxidant power, it makes it is difficult to compare the different types.

Coffee, a natural source of antioxidants

Scientific studies have shown that coffee beans naturally contain polyphenols: antioxidants that may help protect the cells of our body.

All types of coffee contain polyphenols. Whether it is roasted or whole-bean, decaffeinated, robusta or arabica; as you drink your cup of coffee, it will contain antioxidants.

Other natural sources of antioxidants

Antioxidants can be found in their natural state in many plants such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, tea and cocoa beans.

Fruits and Vegetables
Large quantities of antioxidants are present in fruits and vegetables, especially those that are brightly-coloured such as carrots, rich in beta-carotene; tomatoes, rich in lycopene; kiwis, rich in vitamin C; and grapes, rich in flavonoids.

Fruit and vegetables are essential daily components of a balanced diet.