ANTIOXIDANTS
the science behind them + why they are relevant to tea
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What really is an antioxidant?
Basically, antioxidants are compounds that inhibit oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals and chain reactions that may damage the cells of organisms, which play a role in heart disease, cancer, and other diseases. Eating certain foods like broccoli, spinach, and carrots or taking vitamins C or E can give your body boosts of antioxidants! But did you know that loose leaf tea contains lots of antioxidants? Sometimes even higher levels than vegetables! ⬇
Free Radicals = Zombie Apocalypse
(it's just a metaphor)
Free radicals can be atoms, molecules, or ions that have at least one unpaired valence electron. These zombie dudes go around and steal electrons from other atoms, making them unstable and causing them to become electron-stealing free radicals as well! This process causes cell damage. After one free radical takes a zombie bite, the domino effect takes place and soon enough an apocalypse can happen as unstable cells run rampant stealing electrons from healthy cells! But don't fear because antioxidants are generous electron donors and make sure that those troublesome freed radicals get their electrons in order, eliminating the need to take a bite out of their healthy friends. 🧟♂️
Check out these free radical zombie fighting teas:
Green tea: The King of Antioxidants
Did you know that green tea contains 30% polyphenols including catechins (a natural antioxidant) which prevents cell damage?
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