Aging is big business, and today's market is flooded with products that blur the lines between healthcare, beauty and simple fads. Many of these products contain antioxidants to fight aging and promote wellness. We've learned about the benefits of antioxidants from marketing, but it's also important to understand what antioxidants are, and how they work.

Antioxidants are naturally occurring nutrients that are present in the human body and in many plants including fruits and vegetables. Our bodies require antioxidants to function properly. These important nutrients act as cell protectors and they maintain good health by slowing the destructive aging of cellular molecules.

With normal cellular function, cells produce damaged molecules called free radicals. These free radicals can cause further damage to the body by stealing vital components from other cellular molecules including protein, fat and DNA. When left unchecked, free radicals can cause a multitude of serious health concerns including cataracts, heart damage, cancer and a weak immune system.

One of the main benefits of antioxidants is found in their ability to stabilize free radicals. By providing these stabilizing components, antioxidants can help to prevent widespread cellular destruction and reduce further damage to the system. Antioxidants return to the surface level and steady the cells, rather than causing damage to other components.

Although there are some contradictions in the research, several studies have shown that antioxidants have the ability to improve immune responses and vaccine recognitions in cats and dogs. This can be particularly useful when vaccinating young animals that lack fully developed immune systems.

Antioxidants are significant in older animals too, as they reverse the reduction of immune cell functions. Studies have also revealed that a combination of many different antioxidants, when given in average amounts, can be more effective than high level doses of a single antioxidant.

Naturally occurring antioxidants in humans and plants appear in different forms. Familiar natural antioxidant sources are carotenoids including beta-carotene and lutein, and Vitamins A, C and E. These are considered to be the basis of good health, beneficial in the prevention of heart disease through blocking the spread of free radicals.

Vitamin E, in particular, is a common form of antioxidant that can protect against cardiovascular disease by defending against the LDL oxidation and artery-clogging plague development. Numerous studies have shown that the benefits of antioxidants also include a reduced risk of cancer. Vitamin C has been shown to lower rates of mouth, larynx and esophagus cancers.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are delicious options for boosting your antioxidant intake. Eat foods with bright and deep pigments, like tomatoes, red bell peppers, carrots and spinach. These foods provide the highest concentrations of this essential health booster.

There is no question that antioxidants provide many health benefits. But it's still not clear how, or if, antioxidant supplements should be taken. There is also a lack of proof of long-term consequences from taking mega-doses of antioxidants. While antioxidants occur naturally, they are chemicals and should caution must be used.

Speak with your doctor if you're thinking about boosting your body with the benefits of antioxidants.