Oxygen is one of the most important of all elements necessary for sustaining life. But it generates oxidation phenomena that create free radicals.
As expected, high levels of physical activity cause higher oxidative stress in athletes. This term means the ratio at which free radicals (oxidants) are produced to the amount of antioxidants available fraction that is made usuable by the body.
Free radicals are needed in small concentrations to maintain our health, though when generated in high amounts, are detrimental to the form and function of the human body as they alter, damage or destroy proteins, fatty acids, DNA and other molecules constituting the very basis of cell life.
This mechanism, when it is significant, acts as an aggression and can weaken the athletes’ terrain at different levels: synovial, intestinal, hepatic, cardiovascular, muscular.
This can therefore manifest itself in the form of:
– Recurring injuries
– Vulnerability to unwanted microorganisms
– Digestive problems during and after exercise
– Muscle weakness
– Difficult recoveries
The antioxidants are a sort of protection, real protectors of the body’s cells against the radical oxygen species before they get at their goal, diminishing the cellular damage that so hampers the healthy oxidant/antioxidant ratio.
There are many natural sources of antioxidants, including:
– Fresh fruits and berries which include blue berries, rasberries, strawberries, apples, grapes and oranges.
– Vegetables include; salads, carrots onions, broccoli and tomatoes.
– Nuts such as walnut, pecans as well as seeds such as almonds.
– Traditional foods such as fruits and vegetables use spices this includes spices like turmeric, ginger and cinnamon.
The defence capacities of muscle cells are optimised by the diversified and varied diet which decreases the fatigue or weariness resulting from exercise and enhances the athletic performance of the athlete.
At the same time, the use of antioxidants for athletes will be perspective, especially in the conditions of the increase in the training process and sports events.
