The unseen thugs of ageing, free radicals destroy cells, hasten wrinkles, and fuel chronic illnesses. Nutritional biologist Xena Mitchell shows how meals high in antioxidants and supplements may neutralise these invaders and reverse the biological clock.
Xena’s top antioxidants for longevity:
- Glutathione: The “master antioxidant,” produced naturally but depleted by stress and pollution. Liposomal glutathione supplements can enhance levels, protecting mitochondria and detoxifying the liver.
- Polyphenols: Found in green tea, dark chocolate, and berries. EGCG in matcha, for example, boosts metabolism and activates longevity pathways.
- Vitamin E (tocotrienols): Unlike regular vitamin E, this form penetrates cell membranes deeply, shielding skin from UV damage and reducing inflammation linked to Alzheimer’s.
Xena’s unique insight? Timing matters. “Antioxidants are like firefighters—they work best when you have a steady supply,” she says. She recommends “antioxidant pairing”:
- Drink turmeric tea with black pepper (piperine increases absorption by 2,000%).
- Eat tomatoes with olive oil (fat improves lycopene uptake).
She issues a warning about overdoing isolated vitamins as they might backfire. Rather, pay attention to whole-food sources include Brazil nuts (selenium preserves thyroid function) and pomegranates (ellagic acid prevents wrinkles).
“Your cells are battlegrounds,” Xena notes. ” Your defence army is antioxidants.” Using her approach, you’ll armour from the inside out.
