For centuries we’ve been intrigued by the prospect of everlasting youth. Though there has been no breakthrough discovery of a definitive secret elixir or an honest to goodness fountain, there are common substances that have been proven to slow down the aging process. These substances, known as antioxidants, are essential to the everyday activities that occur within the human body, yet not all of us ensure that we eat enough of them.
Some of the most potent antioxidants are a phytonutrient called Betalains. Though there are actually twenty four different types of Betalains, only the nopal cactus super fruit includes them all, which is important when considering whether nutritional products like Nopalea contribute any benefits to society. But before we explore Nopalea as a betalain source, let us take a more in depth look at aging and what empowers these special antioxidants to combat the aging process.
How does aging work?
The very first thing that ought to be understood is just how the process of aging works. Aging is actually the result of an oxidation chain reaction – a process which is observed both in nature and in the human body. This process produces free radicals which mutate cells of the body and wreak havoc from within. Visual indications of this cellular destruction reveals itself as diminished elasticity of the skin and wrinkles. Even though this process is an unavoidable consequence of the laws of nature, Betalains, and other antioxidants, can help slow it down.
How betalains help
In their natural environment, specifically within the fruit of the Nopal cactus, Betalains have the role of preserving the pigment of the plant and of conserving its resistance against natural injurious factors. For the nopal cactus, that means protection against the extremes of the environment in which they grow. Luckily for us, it’s been discovered that similar result can be achieved when these antioxidants are consumed into the human body, but in a different way. As Betalains permeate the cell walls, they stop the chain reaction of oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals and flushing out the toxins. Without free radicals and toxins running uncontrollably within the body, no damage occurs.
So, should someone incorporating betalain-rich foods into their diet see physical differences in their appearance over time? In other words, can betalains REVERSE existing damage?
This is a bit of a difficult thing to answer… While there is certain to be some regeneration of healthy cells and replacement of dead or dying ones, there is no way to tell if one might see a significant reversal of the destruction. There may, at least be some minor changes though and of course, there is less risk of things getting worse. Ultimately, to ward off the effects of aging, it is recommended to start protecting against it before any signs of aging appear. In this way, this natural process will be postponed for a long period of time and, when it does inevitably occur, its effects upon the skin will be minimal and barely noticeable.
Let’s face it – what we look like on the outside means nothing if we don’t have healthy insides. Thankfully, by limiting the oxidation of the body cells, these antioxidants can improve the quality of the inner processes that occur within the body. This means that no matter what age a person may be, the body will function optimally, enabling the person to feel more energetic, lively and strong – characteristics which are usually reserved for youngsters.
However, it is important to point out the fact that in order to enjoy the full benefits of Betalains, one must use them regularly. When the body absorbs a dose of antioxidants, they travel through the blood stream to the cells, where they subject the free radicals to a process of neutralization. In this way, they stop the oxidation of the cells, but oxidize themselves. Once they become oxidized, they can no longer help the cells in any way which is why the antioxidants in the body must constantly be replenished.
The conclusion that can be drawn is that Betalains, which can be found in Nopalea cactus juice, have been shown to be extremely efficient in preventing, and even reversing the process of aging, as long as they are consumed on a regular basis.
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Tags: betalain antioxidants, betalains
