Antioxidants and anti-aging: The Fight Against Free Radicals

The Immortal Cell?

Dr. Alexis Carrel, of the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research, performed an amazing
experiment in the early 1900's He managed to sustain the life of heart tissue from a
chicken embryo by immersing it in a solution containing all the nutrients necessary for
life. The cells took up nutrients from the nutrient-rich solution and excreted their
metabolic wastes into the same solution. Each day the used solution which then
contained toxic waste materials secreted from the cells was replaced with a fresh
nutrient solution. Carrells goal was to show that under the best conditions cells could
live for a long period, possibly indefinitely.
Under these ideal conditions the tissue continued to live for 34 years! more than 3
times a chickens natural life expectancy of 11 years, and 2 years beyond the life of carrel
himself. It is reported that the tissue died only after a worker forgot to change the wastepolluted solution on just one day.
Dr. Carrell stated, "The cell is immortal. It is merely the fluid in which it floats which
degenerates. Renew this fluid at intervals, give the cell something on which to feed and,
so far as we know, the pulsation of life may go on forever." While many of us might not
agree that people could live forever, some scientists believe that the human body is
capable of living at least 120 years.
Every cell in our body excretes metabolic waste material which becomes toxic to our
bodies if we allow it to build up faster than we renew the fluid in which it floats.
Unfortunately, many of us do not feed our cells with optimal nutrition in our diets. This
sets the stage for premature aging and degenerative diseases which plague our
population today.
Thanks to current nutritional research, scientists are discovering the anti-aging, healthpromoting effects of certain nutrients called antioxidants. Antioxidants protect our cells
against the destructive effects of free radicals-highly reactive molecules which can
corrode our cellular membranes and damage our DNA (our genetic blueprint). This
"oxidation" process ages our minds and muscles and can lead to over 60 degenerative
diseases, including cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.(1,2)
A Little Terminology
What's a free radical? Chemically, free radicals are molecule fragments that are
searching for a mate with which to bond. The outer shells of their structures contain an
"unpaired electron," and they attack our cell membranes, frantically stealing electrons to
fill up their own shells. Once inside the cell, they cause mutations in the DNA. This
process continues in a massive chain reaction unless a sufficient supply of antioxidants
is present to stop the process.(2 3)

Our bodies normally produce a small, constant supply of free radicals during metabolic
processes. Some free radicals involve themselves in our immune defense system to
destroy harmful bacteria and viruses. However, it is their excess production that destroys
and ages our normal cells, the very foundation of life itself. In addition, exposure to
outside--and often controllable--influences such as chemicals, poor diet and radiation
makes them proliferate with a domino effect.
The Oxygen Paradox
Oddly enough, the very element that makes it possible for us to live--oxygen--also wreaks
havoc with our cells through oxidative damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids.(article 2 in
stack) Scientists consider free radicals to be the greatest contributing factor to aging. By
destroying cells and mutating DNA, they cause cumulative damage leading to numerous
degenerative diseases and premature aging. The disease of aging ultimately ends with
the cessation of life.(l 2)
Oxygen-based Free Radicals
The most damaging of the oxygen-based free radicals is the hydroxyl radical.(3) Other
harmful free radicals include the superoxide ion, singlet oxygen, the peroxyl radical, the
polyunsaturated fatty acid radical, oxidized protein and hydrogen peroxide (which can
produce manv other free radicals).(2) These free radicals oxidize (steal electrons from) the
cell membranes, essentially perforating them, causing cell damage both externally and
internally. The brain is particularly vulnerable to free radical attack because it generates
more free radicals per gram of tissue than any other organ.(4) This explains why senility
and other conditions of the central nervous system plague many of our elderly.
Antioxidants to the Rescue
Antioxidants scavenge free radicals, attracting them and neutralizing their charge before
they can do damage to cellular structures. Since the physical basis of life exists on the
cellular level, antioxidants play a major role in maintaining health and youthful vigor by
preserving the integrity of individual cells which make up the whole body. By protecting
cells from the onslaught of free radicals, an optimal supply of antioxidants can help the
body avoid premature aging.(l,2)
The reputation of vitamins A, C, E and beta-carotene, as well as the minerals selenium
and zinc, as potent antioxidants is well-documented. In addition, the body itself
produces certain amounts of other potent antioxidants, including melatonin, CoQl0 and
glutathione. However, their production declines with age. It is understandable that the
"diseases of aging" would appear as these levels decline. Supplementation can restore
youthful levels of these powerful internal antioxidants.
Other Antioxidant Superstars
In recent years, scientists have discovered the powerful antioxidant properties of other
nutrients and herbals.

Proanthocyanidins. Research on proanthocyanidins (from both grape seed and

maritime pine bark) has indicated that they are 50 times more effective than vitamin E
and 20 times more effective than vitamin C in scavenging free radicals.(s)
Proanthocyanidins work with vitamin C to help regenerate collagen and shield it from
free-radical attacks; strengthen and restore permeability of capillaries to allow more
oxygen, nutrients, enzymes and hormones to pass through cell membranes to renew and
feed all 60 trillion of the body's cells.(6) This "protect and repair" function promotes
smoothness and elasticity of skin, improved circulation in the eyes and extremities, and
increased memory capacitv (since proanthocyanidins cross the blood-brain barrier).
Proanthocyanidins have been shown to have a positive effect in heart disease, varicose
veins and edema, diabetic retinopathy, and other degenerative processes.(6) Dr. David
White of the University of Nottingham in England calls proanthocyanidins "the
atherosclerosis antidote."
Ginkgo Biloba Long associated with longevity, it now appears that a concentrated 24:1
standardized extract of ginkgo biloba may promote longevity and resistance to aging in
humans. Ginkgo biloba extract has demonstrated remarkable effects on circulatory and
nervous system functions, including enhanced energy, increased cellular glucose intake,
inhibition of blood platelet aggregation (reducing "stickiness" within arteries), increased
blood flow to the brain, improved transmission of nerve signals, and free radical
scavenging activity.(l,6)
Ginkgo biloba extract (120 mg. per day) has significantly reduced major cardiovascular
insufficient symptoms: short term memory loss, tinnitis (ringing in the ears), lack of
vigilance, vertigo, headache and depression. Improved cerebral blood flow provides
increased oxygen and glucose to the brain to relieve many of the presumed side effects
of aging. The Chinese have used ginkgo biloba for over 5,000 years for respiratory
disorders . (l,6)
Green Tea Extract Green tea, another anti-aging herb used for centuries by the Chinese
and Japanese, has demonstrated potent antioxidant and anticancer properties, being
very high in polyphenols. Whereas black tea (the fermented form of green tea) may
increase the risk of certain cancers, green tea consumption may inhibit the formation of
nitrosamines during a meal; increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes; and inhibit
mutagenesis and carcinogenesis by chemopreventative action in humans. Green tea
extract also hum block the formation of tumors. Green tea consumption is believed to be
a major reason for the lower cancer rate in Japan and China.(6)
Milk Thistle Silymarin, a potent antioxidant and flavonoid complex of the herb milk
thistle, prevents free radical damage, particularly within the liver. Its administration may
reduce mortaility from cirrhosis, aid detoxification of harmful environmental chemicals,
and exert significant protection for the liver against hepatitis and chemical or alcoholinduced fatty liver. It may also improve immune function in immunocompromised

patients. In addition, other possible applications for milk thistle may include
atherosclerosis, gallbladder disease and psoriasis. The antioxidant activity of a 65%
standardized extract of milk thistle greatly surpasses that of vitamin E.(6)
Quercitin Quercitin, another flavonoid, appears to reduce allergic processes, inhibit the
infectiousness and/or replication of both RNA and DNA viruses, and inhibit mast cell
degranulation which causes tissue destruction in rheumatoid arthritis. It inhibits the
release of histamine (and other inflammatory mediators) by stablizing mast cells and
basophils; inhibits several enzymes (including lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase) to
prevent inflammation; and decreases leukotriene formation, lipid peroxidation and
collagen breakdown. Most studies on quercitin also show it to suppress tumor formation.
(7)
CoQl0 This vital antioxidant plays a special biochemical role in the production of ATP,
the basic energy molecule of all cells. CoQl0 plays a crucial part in immune system
enhancement and anti-aging processes. Dr. Emile Bliznakov of the Lupus Research
Institute in Ridgefield, CT, showed that CoQI0 supplementation can double the immune
systems abilitv to clear invading organisms from the blood; double antibody levels;
protect against chemically induced cancer; increase resistance to viral infections; reduce
the toxicity of immunosuppressive drugs used in cancer treatment; and quench free
radicals associated with arthritis and other chronic degenerative diseases.(s) Not wellabsorbed when taken in two-piece hard gelatin capsules or tablets produced by standard
methods, CoQI0 becomes more bioavailable when chewed and swallowed with vitamin E,
encouraging absorption through the lymphatic system.
Melatonin The most spectacular star on the nutritional horizon, melatonin may exhibit
the greatest antioxidant/anti- aging effects yet.(3) Endogenous (body-produced)
melatonin, a hormone of the pineal gland, is derived from tryptophan via serotonin. This
pathway may explain melatonin's reputation as a "natural sleeping aid" when taken
before bedtime. Newsweek Magazine (Ausust 7, 1995) reports that scientists say
melatonin could "reset the body's aging clock. turning back the ravages of time.
"Melatonin levels decline steadily with aging. In an Italian study, mice supplemented with
melatonin outlived their life expectancies by nearly one third!(s) Research suggests that
melatonin supplementation may enhance the immune system, protect our cells from
disintegration, slow tumor and cataract growth, and offer protection against heart
disease. When Ponce de Leon searched for the Fountain of Youth, maybe he was looking
for the wrong fountain!
Sources of Antioxidants
Hundreds of scientific studies over the past four decades indicate that to increase our
chances of living longer in a healthier state, we must take aim at free radicals and
confront them head-on with an optimal barrage of antioxidant Studies indicate that
optimal protective amounts of some antioxidants, such as vitamin E and possibly zinc,

cannot be obtained solely through the diet. A diet high in antioxidant-rich fruits and
vegetables, as well as a wide selection of natural nutritional supplements, are easily
available for encouraging your optimal health.
Free radical pathology encompasses many disease states and degenerative conditions
including atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, various cancers, cataracts, macular
degeneration, arthritis, diabetes mellitus, Parkinsons disease, multiple sclerosis, lupus,
Alzheimer's disease, asthma, sickle-cell anemia, ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), Meniere's
disease, some prostate problems, psoriasis, senility, diverticulitis, tinnitis, memory loss,
emphysema, cholesterol oxidation, immune dysfunction, high blood pressure, heart
attacks, chronic bronchitis, periodontal disease, stroke, hypertriglyceridemia, vertigo,
hearing loss due to reduced blood flow, abnormal blood clotting, congestive heart failure,
inflammation, autism, allergies, hemorrhoids, AIDS and many others.

REFERENCES
1. Carper, Jean. Stop Aging Now! NY: HarperCollins Publishers, 1995.
2. Levine, Stephen A., Ph.D. and Kidd, Parris M., Ph.D. Antioxidant Adaptation: Its Role in Free
Radical Pathology. San Leandro, CA: Allergy Research Group, 1986.
3. Reiter, Russel J., Ph.D. A review of the evidence supporting melatonin's role as an antioxidant.
Jour. of Pineal Res. 18:1-11, 1995.
4. Reiter, Russet J., Ph.D. Oxidative processes and antioxidative defense mechanisms in the aging
brain. FASEB Jour. 9:526-533, 1995.
5. New antioxidant defends against free radical damage. Nutrition News, 1989.
6. Werbach, Melvyn R., M.D. and Murray, Michael T., N.D. Botanical Influences on Illness: A
source book of clinical research. Tarzana, CA: Third Line Press, 1994.
7. Werbach, Melvyn R., M.D. Nutritional Influences on Illness: A sourcebook of clinical research,
2nd ed. Tarzana, CA: Third Line Press, 1993.
8. Bliznakof, Emile, M.D. and Hunt, G.L. The Miracle Nutrient Coenzyme Qlo. NY: Bantam
Books, 1987.
9. Pierpaoli, Walter, M.D., Ph.D., and Regelson, Wm., M.D. Melatonin Miracle. NY: Simon &
Schuster, 1995.
The Super Antioxidant Report:
How to start winning the free radical battle!
/by Cheryl Ashby, C.C.T./
Do you ever wish you had more energy...
Wish you could get rid of those nagging aches and pains and improve your
overall health, once and for all?
*Well /. . . /Now you CAN!*
With a new, revolutionary product ? you can have more energy and start
reaping the benefits of better overall health for life! Here's what you
need to do...
*Take a minute to educate yourself about free-radicals and

the harmful effects they have on your body!*

And then learn how the extraordinary power of all natural super
antioxidants <../healthshop/antioxidants.html> can help you overcome the
aging process.
Let me explain... Every day you are constantly exposed to the harmful
effects of free-radical damage in your body. Your body is composed of
billions of molecular cells held together by electronic bonds. When a
molecule loses one of its electron pairs it becomes unstable... what we
call a *free-radical*.
These free-radicals will try to replace their lost electron by attacking
nearby healthy ? /equal electron-paired/ ? //molecules. As they attack,
they transform healthy molecules into more free-radicals... this sets in
motion a chain-reaction called _oxidative stress which can damage a
million or more adjacent molecules_.
As described... this oxidative process is the literal decay of otherwise
healthy tissue!
Everyday in our environment, we see evidence of this destructive
oxidation process at work... a rusting piece of metal... fruits and
vegetables left to air, quickly spoil... even that old tire left outside
in the sun, becomes hard and brittle after a time.
In our bodies this same oxidative force ? ///set in motion by
free-radicals/ ? //is thought to be responsible for:
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*

Premature aging
Skin wrinkles and discoloration
Hardening of the arteries
Stiffening of the joints
Arthritis
Formation of eye cataracts
Phlebitis, oedema and leg swelling
Diabetic retinopathy
Stress-related conditions
Increased susceptibility to cancers.

*The bad news is . . . We simply can not avoid exposure to free-radicals!*

But it is possible to protect yourself from free-radical damage in your
body, by taking a super antioxidant <../healthshop/antioxidants.html>
supplement and in the process . . . restore . . . even regenerate your
youthful looks, health and well-being!
Antioxidants are well documented in the research of Dr. Richard
Passwater, Dr. Jacques Masquelier, Dr. Morton Walker, the Pasteur &
Huntington Institutes and seven other leading Universities in Europe to
be helpful in alleviating many conditions including the following:
Improves Circulation
Decreases Hemorrhoid/Prostate
Strengthens Arteries and Veins
Reduces Menopause/PMS/Cramps
Fights Inflammation in Arthritis
Reduces Risk of Cancer

Aids Sports Injury Healing

Reduces Risk of Stroke
Reduces Eczema
Reduces Risk of Vascular Disease
Decreases Allergies/Hayfever Enhances Immune Resistance
Reduces Blood Pressure Subdues Allergic Reactions
Helps Asthma/Bronchitis
Reduces Diabetic Retinopathy
Helps Cataracts/Glaucoma
Helps MS Inflammation
Reduces Arthritis Pain Lowers Cholesterol
Super antioxidants <../healthshop/antioxidants.html> can help reverse
the devastating effects of free-radical damage in your body caused by
pollution, preservatives, heavy metals, UV radiation and stress.
Studies from the National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Aging,
John Hopkins University and the American Heart Association found that
antioxidants from fruits, vegetables and other natural plants have
hundreds of protective nutrients... Nutrients which can protect your
body from the free-radicals that enter your body and destroy your cells
and tissues.
Antioxidants <../healthshop/antioxidants.html> are a powerful group of
natural supplements that can help reverse the destructive effects of
free-radicals on your body!
If you're having trouble with any of the conditions listed above/...
/*Please don't delay!*
Start taking an antioxidant supplement <../healthshop/antioxidants.html>
and we believe you'll start to see a positive difference in your health
almost immediately!