FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter June 2006
Oxidative Stress
The body constantly reacts with oxygen as part of the energy producing processes of cells. As a consequence of this activity, highly reactive molecules are produced known as free radicals. These interact with other molecules within the cell, which can cause oxidative damage to proteins, membranes and genes. This damage has been implicated in the cause of certain diseases and has an impact on the body's aging process.
The body must constantly “ deactivate” these free radicals ( Reactive oxygen species (ROS)) before they can cause damage.
Some of the nutritional elements that help in this process include vitamins C, E, folic acid, glutathione, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), selenomethionine (SeM), alpha-lipoic acid, niacin, thiamin, Co-enzyme Q10, and green tea .
A recent study (using the equivalent of 4 cups of green tea per day) showed substantial reduction in all areas of oxidative stress. Green tea contains polyphenols and essential oils that strengthen blood vessels, protect vit C from oxygenation, help regulate thyroid hyperfunction, help prevent dental caries, and can inhibit tumor growth especially in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
So start drinking your green tea…let it step for about 5 minutes to get some of the good things out it and enjoy!!!
Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith
Complementary Medicine