A-Z antioxidant benefits Articles

The acronym AHCC stands for Active Hexose Correlated Compound, which is a registered trademark of Amino Up Co. Ltd. It is an extract of the root threads of shiitake (Letinula edodes) and other mushrooms fermented in rice bran. Let's explore how AHCC supplements can help your health and well being.

Top Health Benefits of AHCC Supplements

Immune Benefits

AHCC has been found to benefit the innate immune response. Innate immune cells are those that do not require a previous exposure to a pathogen in order to respond. These are cells such as natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, and mast cells.

Research has found that AHCC significantly increases natural killer (NK) cell activity in those with unhealthy cell growth. These NK cells are the immune cells responsible for directly attacking abnormal and virally infected cells in the body. In the same way, AHCC may be able to boost the immune response and actually prevent infections – particularly those caused by viruses. Some initial research has shown potential protection provided against the influenza (flu) and West Nile viruses, by a boosting of the innate immune response.

Healthy Cell Renewal

Interestingly, in addition to innate immune benefits, AHCC has also been shown to boost killer T cells and certain cytokines that promote a beneficial adaptive immune response in those with unhealthy cell growth. It has also been shown to improve healthy cell regeneration, most specifically in the liver. In fact, AHCC is widely used in Japan and China for these health issues, particularly to protect the immune system.

Diabetes Support

Some research has shown the diabetic patients can also benefit from supplementation of AHCC. It has been found to reduce blood sugar levels and help to promote blood sugar stabilization, which results in lower hemoglobin A1c levels (HbA1c). Further research is required in this area.

Shopping For Quality AHCC Supplements

This supplement can be found alone in tincture and powdered form, and there are a number of mushroom blends that contain AHCC. The recommended dose of AHCC has not yet been well established and recommended dosages range from 500mg to 3g daily, with lower doses being used for maintenance, while higher doses are used for more aggressive therapy.

What Are Carotenoids?

Carotenoids are a class of compounds that are produced in the chloroplasts of some plants, bacteria, algae and fungae. Since these molecules absorb light in the blue spectrum, foods containing them often appear yellow, orange, or red. Interestingly, this blue light easily excites other molecules to form free radicals, so by absorbing it, carotenoids act as antioxidants.

Science has not yet discovered all of the carotenoids, although over 600 have been identified so far. Two major classifications are carotenes, an oxygenated form of carotenoid, and xanthophylls, which do not contain oxygen. Common xanthophylls are astaxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin. The most well-known carotenes are lycopene and beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is the only carotenoid mentioned in this article that can be converted to vitamin A in humans.

What Do Carotenoids Do?

The function of each carotenoid is different, although each can be considered as an antioxidant that helps to protect the body against the damage caused by free radicals. The more common ones are involved in eye and vision health, as well as the prevention of cancer and the visible signs of aging.

Types of Carotenoids

Beta Carotene

Beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the liver and is often used instead of vitamin A supplementation to avoid potential toxicity. The remaining beta-carotene that is not converted to vitamin A by the liver is a free radical scavenger (antioxidant).

Lycopene

Lycopene is the carotene pigment molecule that gives ripe tomatoes their bright red colour. It is a potent antioxidant with affinity for the prostate gland that may help lower the risk of unhealthy cell growth.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin work in the eye as antioxidants. Studies show that lutein and zeaxanthin protect the eye from damage and can reduce the incidence of eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

Astaxanthin

This red pigment molecule is responsible for making shrimp and lobster change colour when they are cooked. It is a strong antioxidant and plays a role in protecting the eye, heart, and liver as well as preventing diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

Taking Carotenoids As A Supplement

The carotenoids are most effective when taken together in a complex, likely because this is how they exist in food. It is recommended to use a natural beta-carotene or carotenoid complex for the best results. Some companies extract natural carotenoid complex from sea algae, to create a product called "Betatene".

Important Information

Absorption of carotenoids is inhibited by some medications including colchicine, mineral oil and some cholesterol-lowering medications. Most carotenoids have not been tested for supplementation use during pregnancy or lactation, because of this it is recommended that these women limit their intake to dietary sources.

You're probably familiar with turmeric, that vibrant yellow spice with mega health benefits that are added to everything from curries to golden mylks and smoothies. Turmeric comes from the curcuma longa plant and has been used for thousands of years. Its use can be traced back to Vedic India, where it was used as a condiment, a healing remedy, and even as a textile dye.

In the last several years, you've likely read about how turmeric and its active ingredient, curcumin, can be used to help improve joint pain. One reason for this is curcumin's ability to act as an antioxidant.

What exactly does this mean? Read on to learn about why antioxidants are important and how the active ingredient from this curcuma longa species can provide health benefits.

Introduction to Antioxidants

While there is no fountain of youth out there, antioxidants come close. Antioxidants are compounds that help protect your body from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules with an unpaired electrons. In their search for another electron, free radicals can cause damage to cells, leading to inflammation, premature aging, and disease. They're formed when you eat processed foods or cook with high heat. They also come from outside sources, like pollution in the air. But luckily, antioxidant molecules have an extra electron that they can donate to these unstable free radicals.

In general, antioxidants can be either fat-soluble or water-soluble. The antioxidants found in supplements from the curcuma longa species are fat-soluble, which means that it must be taken with a fat source to enhance bioavailability (we'll get to that in a minute).

Curcumin: More About Its Active Ingredient

Turmeric from the curcuma longa species has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat pain and inflammation (like arthritis). It contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling, stiffness, redness, and heat associated with arthritis symptoms. Interestingly, in countries like India and China, where a lot of turmeric has traditionally been consumed, there are lower incidences of disease.

In recent years, researchers have been able to isolate and study the active compounds found in the curcuma longa plant. Curcumin is the most "active" compound found in turmeric. And it's the reason for turmeric's beautiful golden colour. If colour gives any clue to benefits, you can tell that you will get many benefits from consuming curcumin. Read on to learn how curcumin acts as an antioxidant in your body.

• Neutralizing free radicals: As mentioned, free radicals are unstable molecules with an unpaired electron. They can be present in your body as a result of the food you eat, chemicals you're exposed to (including pesticides), and even stress. Unfortunately, prolonged free-radical attacks can accelerate the physical signs of aging. But because curcumin molecules contain an extra electron, they can neutralize free radical damage.
• Combating oxidative stress: Oxidative stress is the process that occurs when the body is exposed to too many free radicals. Interestingly, chronic pain is believed to be due in part to oxidative stress. Curcumin works by neutralizing these free radicals and preventing oxidative stress from occurring. One review of scientific research found that curcumin was able to neutralize oxidative stress by helping the body remove reactive oxygen and nitrogen, as well as removing heavy metals. Also, because it can regulate certain enzymes in the body, curcumin can help reduce oxidative stress.
• Stimulating the production of glutathione: Glutathione is a sulfur-based molecule made of cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. It is an important antioxidant that helps detoxify the body by neutralizing harmful free radicals. You may also be interested to learn that glutathione production slows as you age, making it even more important to supplement with curcumin.

Curcumin Supplements: Benefits, Dosing and Formats

If you are wondering whether curcumin may be for you, here are some situations that could benefit from this ingredient:

• If you experience joint pain
• If you suffer from an inflammatory condition 
• If you want to support healthy aging
• If you want to support a healthy brain (including mood and cognition)
• If you have an active injury
• If you are healing from surgery

How To Take This Supplement

Curcumin is a fat-soluble substance. Our ability to absorb it is low. Health experts have questioned its ability to reach the bloodstream, where it does its therapeutic work.

Traditionally, curcumin supplements have been combined with black pepper (including a substance found in black pepper called piperine) to enhance absorption. Some supplement manufacturers have also used fermented turmeric to enhance absorption.

Recently, supplement companies have developed new formulations, including liposomal curcumin and curcumin nanoparticles, to make the curcumin more readily absorbed into our cells.

A good dose of curcumin is 500–1000 mg, standardized to 95% curcuminoids.

Curcumin FAQs

Are curcuma longa, curcumin and turmeric the same thing?

Curcuma longa is the plant/root in which turmeric comes from. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin is a major component of turmeric and gives it its yellow colour.

Can curcumin help with weight loss?

Curcumin may help with weight loss by reducing inflammation. Studies show that it may reduce adipogenesis (the process of forming fat cells) in mice and rats. However, this is animal research and more studies are needed to see if the same benefit will occur in humans.

Are curcumin supplements safe?

Yes, curcumin supplements are safe. Studies show that it is well-tolerated and has a low risk for side effects and fun fact, it comes from a flowering plant called curcuma longa that is also apart of the ginger family!

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7694612

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92752 
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15650394/

Ellagic acid is a natural phenol compound found in many different fruits and vegetables with the highest levels being found in pomegranates, raspberries and strawberries. Ellagic Acid's key health benefits include its strong antioxidant, antimutagenic and natural anti-proliferative activities. 

Top Health Benefits of Ellagic Acid

Antioxidant Properties

Ellagic acid is a strong antioxidant that can help to protect the body’s cells against free radical damage. Some scientists and health professionals believe that antioxidants may play a role in the treatment of a variety of 'silent inflammatory' processes, like those involved in cardiovascular disease, diabetes and unhealthy cell growth.

Protects Healthy Cell Growth

Ellagic acid is one of the major active constituents in pomegranate juice. This natural phenol acts as a strong antioxidant and has been considered an antimutagenic. Ellagic acid can directly prevent the binding of carcinogenic compounds with cellular DNA in a test tube. This is the mechanism by which ellagic acid has been thought to help prevent unhealthy cell growth. However, further research is required before we can be sure of these effects.

Ellagic Acid Supplement Varieties

When shopping for an ellagic acid supplement, you can find it as a standalone supplement in capsule form or you can reap its benefits by taking a pomegranate extract supplement which is often available as a capsule or powder. 

Understanding The Bioavailability of Ellagic Acid

When it binds to a carbohydrate, ellagic acid forms ellagitannins which are strong antioxidants in a test tube. Unfortunately, when these substances are ingested, bacteria in the digestive tract convert them into inactive byproducts. This has caused some doubt as to whether ellagic acid can have strong effects on the human body.

Glutathione is a sulfur-based molecule made from three amino acids cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. It is an important antioxidant in the liver’s detoxification pathways. Glutathione changes chemicals and metabolic byproducts into harmless substances for excretion from the body, by deactivating harmful free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that in their bid to become more stable must bump into healthy cells and cause damage. Let's explore how to use and shop for the best glutathione supplement. 

Key Glutathione Health Benefits

Glutathione is responsible for detoxifying many compounds, including those found in cigarette smoke, alcohol, aspirin and acetaminophen. As an antioxidant in other parts of the body, glutathione protects red blood cells, helps immune cells kill invading microbes and stops cells from being harmed by radiation. Glutathione can be administered directly to the lungs to help reduce free radical damage in conditions such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma. 

This antioxidant is recommended by natural health practitioners for conditions such as:

• Frequent Colds and Flus
• Hair Loss
• Peptic Ulcers
• Drug, and Alcohol Overdose
• Decreased Liver Functioning

Shopping For The Best Glutathione Supplement

Glutathione is available as an encapsulated powder. It must be in a reduced form to be metabolically active. Purchase only supplements that say “reduced” on the label. 

There is controversy surrounding the body’s ability to absorb glutathione in the intestinal tract. Some studies show that taking the precursors to glutathione (L-cysteine or N-acetylcysteine), L-methionine or DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) raises the body’s glutathione levels more than taking glutathione itself. 

Some practitioners can also administer glutathione as an inhalation for chronic respiratory disorders.

Potential Side Effects Or Contraindications

Glutathione administration may cause allergic reactions. There are no known drug interactions or toxicities associated with glutathione use.

Rooibos tea, pronounced “Royboss”, is known as Red Tea. Its popularity is sweeping Europe and North America. Coffee conglomerates are now offering “Red Espresso” made from this unique red tea. The health benefits of Rooibos are growing as studies continue to come out exclaiming the many health promoting properties of this Native South African plant.

What is Rooibos?

Rooibos, from the Aspalathus Linearis plant, is almost exclusively grown on the west coast of South Africa. The problem is it has been unsuccessfully cultivated in other parts of the world. So it is almost completely dependent on the unique climate on South Africa’s west coast. Rooibos is a very hardy dry land crop and depends on deeply course acidic sandy soil specific to that region. It is so hardy it can survive at temperatures as low as zero degree centigrade and as high as 45 degrees centigrade. Unfortunately rising temperatures and decreasing rain falls are threatening the survival of this indigenous bush.

Rooibos tea can be found in either green or red varieties. Green Rooibos is unfermented – similar to green tea. And Red Rooibos is fermented, which is similar to black tea. Red Rooibos tea is more available and popular as its flavor is sweet and earthy. Green Rooibos is more malty flavored and is more expensive. Studies comparing the two for their health benefits vary as to which is the healthier variety.

Although historically used by South Africa’s native culture, Rooibos tea came to the world’s attention when Dutch settlers arrived in South Africa. The Dutch found the tea to be similar in taste black tea. This was attractive to the Dutch because of its availability and affordability compared to importing customary black tea.

Benefits of Rooibos

Rooibos has many health benefits and, while not studied on humans, has been studied extensively on animals. Benefits include its antioxidant properties, effects on your immune system, cardiovascular and cholesterol lowering effects.

Heart Health Support

Rooibos has very low caffeine and tannin content so it is a great substitute for those who are sensitive to caffeine or have stress, tension and a fast heart rate, which caffeine exacerbates.

Rooibos tea is healthy for your cardiovascular system. Studies show that ingesting just a couple cups of Rooibos tea daily will actually reduce your risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease. This is again due to its high antioxidant, phenolic compound and flavanoid content. It was shown to significantly reduce lipid peroxidation (where fats, cholesterol and cell membranes are damaged), reduce negative LDL cholesterol, and reduce triglyceride levels. Rooibos also increases protective good HDL cholesterol. Overall, researchers concluded that Rooibos significantly reduced risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease.

Antioxidant Protection

It’s most popular quality is its antioxidant concentrations, specifically high in two called Aspapathin and Nothofagin. It’s also high in phenolic compounds called flavanols, flavones, and flavanones. Two of its more commonly known flavanoids are called Quercetin and Luteolin. Antioxidants, phenolic compounds and flavanoids are excellent in treating and managing inflammation and cardiovascular health.

Pain Management Support

Rooibos helps pain and inflammation mainly by two mechanisms. Its antioxidant content neutralizes free radicals and toxins that cause damage and inflammation to joints and connective tissue.

Rooibos also inhibits the enzyme called Xanthine Oxidase. By doing this your body does not convert Purines (from animal protein and sea food) to Uric Acid. Uric acid causes pain and inflammation, particularly to joints. The classic disease caused by high Uric Acid levels is called Gout or Gouty Arthritis. This disease mostly affects the joint of the large toe but can also cause inflammation in your knees, ankles and feet, and less commonly in the joints in your upper limbs. High uric acid can also cause kidney stones.

Immune Health Benefits

Studies have also shown that Rooibos has a positive effect on your immune system. It increases immune modulators, which means if your immune system is too reactive, as in allergies and autoimmune disease, it will reduce its reactiveness. And in cases where your immune system is under functioning it elevates its responsiveness and activity warding off infections.

Shopping For Quality Tea

Rooibos can be found in both green and red varieties, most commonly in its fermented red state.

There are various grades. Higher grades have less stem in it. The leaves, which look like fine red needles, are where the taste and health benefits reside. The needles are dark red which gives the liquid tea a dark rich flavor. Fewer stems in the tea results in less sediment and is described as less “dusty” in aftertaste. You want to look for a liquid tea that is dark, sweet and clear.

Studies show there are no side effects from drinking this tea so you can drink as much hot or iced Rooibos as you like. The larger the quantity of tea consumed, the greater the antioxidants and other health benefits you will be getting.

Did you know that vitamin E is much more than simply vitamin E? Vitamin E is actually made up of eight different molecules, including four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. Research is showing that the different components of vitamin E have different effects in the body.

Interestingly, since the discovery of vitamin E in 1922, only 1% of research into vitamin E has been done on the tocotrienol forms. This is because until recently, science has focused solely on the more biologically prevalent form of vitamin E, alpha-tocopherol.

It was initially believed that because alpha-tocopherol was more prevalent, it had greater effect in the body. However, since 2009 there has been a dramatic increase in research being done on tocotrienols. This research is revealing that they are stronger acting than the tocopherol forms of vitamin E.

What Are Tocotrienols?

Tocotrienols are members of the vitamin E family. They have a slightly different molecular structure than the better known tocopherol forms of vitamin E. They are fat soluble and are found naturally in very low levels in vegetable oils. Palm oil is a good source of tocotrienols; however, annatto is one of the only known food sources that contains only tocotrienols and not tocopherols. Hence supplementation is one of the only ways to get therapeutic levels of tocotrienols.

What Are Tocotrienols Used For?

Current research is showing that tocotrienols are potent antioxidants and they are proving to be more powerful acting than the tocopherol forms of vitamin E.

They have numerous effects on the body that tocopherols do not have, including:

• Neuro-protection
• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Cardio-protective actions
• Cholesterol lowering effects

This makes these potent antioxidants useful in protecting against:

• Alzheimer's
• Parkinson’s
• Huntington’s disease
• Protecting against mutated cells
• The damaging effects of diabetes
• Atherosclerosis
• Cardiovascular disease

Some sources have shown that they can penetrate fatty tissues more efficiently, which, combined with their powerful antioxidant effects, makes tocotrienols an excellent option for anti-aging. In particular, it can combat the oxidative stress of skin exposed to the damaging effects of UV rays from the sun.

Early studies have demonstrated that the antioxidant effects of tocotrienols are protective against oxidative damage to osteoblasts (cells that strengthen bones and promote bone growth), making it potentially protective against osteoporosis.

Clearly, tocotrienols have a powerhouse of potential in the treatment of a number of diseases!

How Do Tocotrienols Work?

They work by reducing oxidative damage. Oxidative damage occurs when reactive oxygen species, such as free radicals, damage cells, proteins, lipids and DNA throughout the body. Like any other antioxidant, they work to detoxify and stop the damage caused by reactive oxygen species.

It is the powerful antioxidant action of tocotrienols, combined with its fat soluble nature that allows them to have protective effects against cardiovascular disease, chronic fatigue syndrome and neuro-degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

Tocotrienols exert properties that attack unhealthy cells through cell cycle arrest and initiation of apoptosis (programmed cell death for damaged cells). What this means is, tocotrienols supports the body’s natural mechanisms for destroying cells that either are mutated or potentially could become mutated. They also reduce angiogenesis, which is the creation of new blood supply to cancerous cells.

The cholesterol lowering effects of this group of antioxidants can be attributed to its effects on enzymes that produce cholesterol in the body. They work by reducing lipids, lowering cholesterol production and increases HDL, which is the “good fat”. All of these actions make them effective in treating cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis.

How Do You Use Them?

You can take tocotrienols by supplementing with vitamin E. However, you have to take a good look at your vitamin E supplement to know if it contains tocotrienols because many of them only contain the alpha-tocopherol form, or mixed tocopherols. To get the full benefit of tocotrienols, you must use a supplement that includes all of the forms of vitamin E.

They are best absorbed in oil based preparations due to its fat soluble nature; therefore, softgels are best. It is also best absorbed when taken with a meal, in particular a meal that includes fat.

You can also use red palm oil, which is a plant based oil that naturally contains tocotrienols; however, heat will destroy vitamin E, so it is best used in smoothies, on salads or as a spread.

The Low-Down on Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is not stored within the body. Humans cannot manufacture their own vitamin C, either, meaning it must be taken in through diet and supplementation. This vitamin is the most widely used supplement. It is recommended that this vitamin be taken in divided doses throughout the day, as excess is lost in urine within a few hours of ingestion. 

Vitamin C can be found in an abundant number of fruits and vegetables, including: 

• Citrus fruits
• Cantaloupe, Mango, Papaya & Pineapple
• Berries
• Leafy Greens, Broccoli & Brussels Sprouts
• Cauliflower
• Sweet Potatoes
• Red and green peppers, Tomato/tomato juice, and Squash

This vitamin is sensitive to heat, so it is recommended to eat these foods raw or only lightly cooked.

Key Health Benefits of Vitamin C

Collagen, Baby!

This vitamin is essential for the production of a protein called collagen, which in turn plays an integral role in the formation of cartilage, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, and skin. As such, this vitamin is necessary for the fast and effective healing of wounds and injuries to these areas, all over the body. It promotes less visible scarring during healing, as the body is only able to form new tissue with the help of this vitamin. Along with calcium, vitamin C also helps to repair and maintain bones and teeth.

Protect Your Heart

The role that this vitamin has in heart health can be summed up in one word. Protection. Studies have shown that this vitamin can protect the arteries of the body (remember, collagen plays a role here, as well) against damage. Being high in antioxidants, it has been shown to slow the progression of atherosclerosis. Research does not support claims that this vitamin can lower cholesterol in itself, but it does support findings that suggest it can reduce the damage or buildup of LDL (bad cholesterol) plaques within the blood vessels. Individuals with low levels of this vitamin have an increased risk of stroke, heart attack and peripheral artery disease. Individuals with diets high in antioxidants, such as those high in vitamin C-rich foods, are also at a decreased risk of developing high blood pressure.

Healthy Cell Growth Support

Diets rich in this vitamin have also been associated with decreased risk of developing unhealthy cells. Although high doses of this vitamin as a treatment for mutated cell growth are controversial, research and support seem to be growing for the administration of high-dose vitamin C intravenously. Vitamin C, in this form, has been shown to be selectively toxic to certain mutated cells. Some beneficial interactions with chemotherapy have also been observed, mainly increased tolerability.

Immune Health

Some practitioners swear by this vitamin for its treatment of cold, flu and other viral infections. The truth is, there is little research to support the use of this vitamin as a CURE for the common cold. That being said, studies do support its ongoing intake as a means to reduce the chance of complications due to cold (pneumonia, bronchitis, etc.), as well as help decrease the severity and duration of cold. Because this vitamin is depleted with stress, there is also evidence to suggest it may be beneficial for the prevention and treatment of stress related immune deficiencies.

The list goes on…

This vitamin has also been used for the treatment of the following conditions:

• Macular degeneration
• Asthma
• Allergies
• Gingivitis
• Visible Signs of Aging
• Preeclampsia
• Inflammation

Symptoms of Deficiency

Severe deficiency of this vitamin is rare, but low levels are becoming more and more common. Signs and symptoms include poor wound healing, easy bruising, nose bleeds, rough/dry/scaly skin, and dry, splitting hair, gingivitis and decreased immunity. These symptoms can get quite severe, with extreme deficiency known as scurvy. Cigarette smoking can seriously lower levels of this vitamin. These individuals must compensate through diet or supplementation. Stress, physical and mental/emotional, can also deplete vitamin C levels, as can some medications, including Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories (NSAIDs).

Different Types of Vitamin C

There are several types of this vitamin. Ascorbic acid is the basic form. To buffer the natural acidity of vitamin C, manufacturers bind it to other molecules. Two examples are calcium ascorbate (Ester-C) and ascorbyl palmitate. It also makes vitamin C easier for the body to absorb and decreases the loss of the vitamin through the urine. This increases the cost of the supplement, but it is beneficial to those taking high doses of this vitamin, those who cannot tolerate acidic substances, and those with compromised absorption or digestive processes. 

This vitamin comes in a variety of dosage forms, including conventional capsules, time-released caps/tablets, syrups, powders and chewable tablets. A qualified practitioner can administer it intravenously. This vitamin is usually derived from corn or dextrose, but tapioca-sourced C is also available. This vitamin is often combined with bioflavonoids, like hesperidin and rutin. These substances work synergistically with this vitamin. Rose hips are a good substitute for straight vitamin C because they are the richest natural source of this vitamin. Rose hips are also a good source of bioflavonoids.

Important Information

Vitamin C needs are increased if you use oral contraceptives, antidepressants, analgesics, anticoagulants, steroids or alcohol. Cooking, light, oxygen, tobacco smoke and carbon monoxide destroy this vitamin, impacting internal levels. 

Vitamin C supplements should be taken away from ginseng. Some diabetic medications and sulfa drugs may be less effective when taken with vitamin C. Individuals with hemochromatosis should not supplement with vitamin C. 

High oral doses, usually over 2000 mg, can cause some abdominal cramping and diarrhea. Speak with your doctor before supplementing with this vitamin if undergoing conventional cancer treatments. This vitamin can interfere with some blood work, including glucose levels, causing false readings.

White Tea comes from the same tea plant called Camellia sinensis, which also produces Black, Green and Oolong varieties. The difference in these teas comes from what happens once the leaves have been picked and the various processing involved.

What is White Tea?

This tea comes from the Camellia sinensis tea plant. The leaves are harvested once the buds of the plant have just opened. There is a white fuzz still on the immature tea leaves, which is where the name for the tea comes from. The dried tea looks yellow in appearance.
From there, the opened buds are not fermented, dried or wilted but steamed. This preparation gives the tea a gentle, sweet, subtle flavour without the 'grassy' aftertaste associated with green tea.

The benefit of steaming the leaves produces a delicate tasting tea and one which has greater health benefits than either black, green or oolong varieties.

What is White Tea Used For?

This tea has the highest concentration of an antioxidant called polyphenols, also called polyphenolics, than any of the other tea varieties. This is because white tea is the least processed of all the teas. Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants that fight unhealthy cells and protect your healthy cells from becoming damaged and potentially unhealthy.

Antioxidants like Polyphenols also protect your arteries from atherosclerotic plaques. They protect your brain, eyes and skin from normal wear and tear associated with normal aging.

In fact, this tea is known for its longevity characteristics. Because it protects you from aging and cellular damage, it promotes longevity.

It's also great for your immune system. In a 2004 study from Pace University, it was concluded that white tea can help your immune system fight off viruses and infection-causing bacteria.

White tea is also naturally high in fluoride, which cleans and fights dental decay by killing the organisms which cause infection and cavities. It also strengthens teeth and bones, which is important for osteoporosis prevention.

How Does White Tea Work?

White Tea's medicinal effects are largely from its high polyphenolic concentration of antioxidants.

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals in your body, preventing them from causing cellular damage, which is also called oxidative damage.

A study out of Oregon State University noted this tea has a very content of another antioxidant called Catechin. Catechin was found to inhibit the growth of mutated cells. According to the American Cancer Society, drinking white tea may reduce the recurrence of mutated breast cells in survivors.

Catechins also reduce blood pressure by dilating blood vessels. Studies also show that drinking this tea reduces serum cholesterol levels.

Catechins may also increase weight loss as they inhibit adipogenesis (the making of adipose cells) while also stimulating fat-burning activity in your body.

Oxidative damage can harm your cardiovascular system, contribute to atherosclerosis, eye damage, vision impairment and skin damage.

Specifically, how it works is by the antioxidant donating an electron to unstable free radicals. This neutralizes them and inactivates their harmful behaviour.

Ways To Use It

White tea can be drunk either hot or cold. Dosage is 1-2 tsp of loose leaf per 8 oz cup of hot water. Let steep 5 – 8 min. This tea can be consumed as much as you like. White tea does contain caffeine, although in lower amounts than black or green tea.