I am always looking for ways to help my patients improve their health. It is well known that antioxidants are important in combating free radicals in our bodies. A key factor is the reduction of the amount of free radicals that produce oxidative stress that cause inflammation and disease process. The body’s natural defense is the Nfr2 pathway and the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and gluthathione.

Free Radicals = Oxidative Stress

I research ways to support our bodies’ natural defense against oxidative stress, which cause us to age more rapidly and develop chronic diseases. The best way to eliminate free radicals and keep our body’s vitality with optimal health is our lifestyle choices. We have control over what we put into our bodies and it is important to have clean nutrient rich foods that support our Nfr2 and antioxidant enzymes.

Nutritional Choices

Some of the phytochemicals that support the Nfr2 pathway are found in turmeric, ashwagandha, bacopa, green tea, milk thistle, curcumin, quercetin from onions, blueberries, onions, broccoli, cabbage, apples, grapes, avocados, spinach, green potatoes, black peppers and pine bark. Other steps to increase Nfr2 are staying active and intermittent fasting.

Supplements & Caution

There are many supplements supporting Nfr2 and to support your own antioxidant SOD, catalase and glutamine. Be wary, because products that have SOD, catalase and glutathione, when taken orally usually the enzymes are destroyed by the digestive enzymes in the stomach. I usually give gluthathione by IV. I just found a formulation for SOD that can be well absorbed the body. I have been taking it and I have better skin and more energy.

The Bottom Line

So make good choices: don’t smoke, breath clean air, eat a rainbow color of foods, keep moving and skip a few meals or more!

In Health,