Combat Free Radical Damage With Antioxidants To Get Bigger Muscles

Free radical damage is considered to be responsible for the aging process. The free radical theory states that free radicals lead to the decomposition of cells, which is in turn linked to age related diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Since free radicals are associated with cell decomposition, it is obvious that they affect muscle tissue as well and thus hinder the process of building muscle even when you training hard.

Free radical damage is linked with oxidative stress due to the increased production of oxidizing species or the decreased capability of the body's natural mechanism which is responsible for antioxidant defense. Antioxidants are molecules that restrict oxidation of other molecules.

There are two ways of preventing free radical damage: one, by staying away from situations that cause it, and two, by taking antioxidant supplements.

Stress, environmental pollution, alcohol consumption, and smoking are some of the most common causes of increase in free radical damage. While awareness can motivate you to stay clear of these, there are certain situations where antioxidant supplementation may be the only remedy, for example, if you are looking to get bigger muscles.

It may sound strange, but it is a reality that there is a spurt in free radicals when you exercise, particularly during intense workouts. The reason is that intense exercise puts immense stress on the body. This surge in free radical activity continues long after a workout. Depending on the intensity of a workout, it may even last for days.

It is exactly because of this that it is recommended that bodybuilders should have a diet that is very rich in antioxidants. However, that may not be possible in all cases, which makes it necessary that antioxidant supplements are taken.

Vitamin A, C, and E are the best antioxidants and are naturally present in practically all citrus fruits.

You will also find many antioxidant supplements in the market. Teas have always attracted attention as well, but what is not commonly known is that the tea plant also contains antioxidant metabolites. Other substances that can effectively combat free radical damage include Alpha Lipoic Acid and Beta Carotene.