All About Antioxident Nutrients
In addition to ingredients with low caloric density, leading longevity diets today are also rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are nutrients that prevent or slow oxidative damage to the body. When cells in the body use oxygen, they produce free radicals that can cause damage at the cellular level, impairing cell function and immunity.
Antioxidants that inhibit the damage from free radicals are instrumental in supporting natural defenses against cellular destruction associated with aging in both humans and companion animals.
Antioxidants found in BLUE Longevity
Many veterinarians and animal nutritionists believe antioxidants can provide a variety of health benefits for cats.
Beta-carotene
Found in carrots, spinach and broccoli, beta-carotene gobbles up free radicals.
Lutein
Found in vegetables like spinach, lutein lowers the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration (loss of vision due to damage to the retina).
Lycopene
Found in tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables.
Selenium
Found in whole grains and fish, selenium lessens the impact of free radicals.
Vitamin A
Found in carrots and spinach, Vitamin A helps promote healthy skin, strong teeth and bones and good eyesight.
Vitamin C
Found in vegetables such as broccoli and fruit such as blueberries.
Vitamin E
Found in whole grains, spinach and vegetable oils.
Zinc
Found in fish meal and barley, Zinc helps support the immune system and promote healthy skin.
Important Antioxidant Rich Foods
Antioxidants are found in a number of key foods. Here are the top antioxidant-rich foods for humans—six of which are found in BLUE Longevity cat food:
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Berries
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Broccoli
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Tomatoes
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Red Grapes
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Garlic
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Spinach
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Tea
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Carrots
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Whole Grains