A comprehensive guide on the health benefits of antioxidants found in moringa
Moringa has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is a superfood and has been known to have numerous health benefits. Did you know that moringa is full of antioxidants? It contains more than 46 natural antioxidants and can help slow down the aging process and increase longevity.
What are antioxidants?
Before we delve into the types and benefits of antioxidants found in moringa, let’s understand the term “antioxidants”. Antioxidants describe a compound that protects your DNA and other cells of the body. They counteract damage from free radicals and other unstable molecules that can harm cells. When free radicals outnumber antioxidants, it leads to a state called oxidative stress. Prolonged oxidative stress can damage DNA and other important molecules of the body. While antioxidants are naturally produced in our bodies, they can also be found in plant and animal origin.
Why moringa?
The endless benefits of antioxidants make moringa a food you want to incorporate into your diet. It has several potent antioxidant properties and a 2012 study conducted on women showed that taking 1.5 teaspoons (7 grams) of moringa powder per day for three months may significantly increase blood antioxidant levels. There are over 40 antioxidants in moringa, and all of these have significant health benefits.
Here’s a list of some of the major antioxidants found in moringa.
Beta carotene
Beta carotene has powerful antioxidant properties. We already know that one of the top benefits of antioxidants is to reduce oxidative stress. Beta carotene reduces oxidative stress and may help and improve overall wellbeing.*
Vitamin C
One of the major health benefits of antioxidants is that they boost the immune system. Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that can strengthen the body’s natural defenses. Vitamin C can also significantly increase blood antioxidant levels. According to a study conducted over five years, consuming more vitamin C can increase blood antioxidant levels by up to 30%. This helps the body’s natural defenses in fighting inflammation. It also may reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease. Another study conducted in 2002 found that vitamin C supplements helped relax the blood vessels that carry blood from the heart, which helped reduce blood pressure levels.*
Chlorogenic acid
Chlorogenic acid is a powerful antioxidant found in moringa. It has numerous benefits. A randomized, controlled trial demonstrated that 140 mg of chlorogenic acid per day could decrease blood pressure. Chlorogenic acid may also help moderate blood sugar levels after meals. This powerful antioxidant also has anti-inflammatory properties.*
Quercetin
Quercetin is one of the most abundant antioxidants in the diet that combats free radicals and prevents chronic diseases. Foods that commonly contain quercetin include onions, moringa, apples, grapes, berries, broccoli, citrus fruits, cherries, green tea, coffee, red wine, and capers. It is also one of the most powerful antioxidants. According to a 2007 study, this powerful antioxidant may help lower blood pressure. Quercetin may also help in reducing inflammation and allergy symptoms.*
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant. It’s stored in the liver and fatty tissue, and is used only when needed. One of the most important health benefits of antioxidants is that they combat free radicals. Being a powerful antioxidant, vitamin E reduces oxidative stress and prevents various chronic diseases. Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that involves the degeneration of joints that results in pain and stiffness. According to a 2017 study, vitamin E can help reduce the clinical symptoms of this condition.*
The advantages of antioxidants found in moringa are countless. To reap these benefits, we recommend adding moringa to your diet today! Moringa is a versatile ingredient and you can easily add it to your smoothies, oatmeal, salads and other meals.
* Miracle Tree® products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. While there is promising research currently evaluating moringa and other similar products, we rather focus on their nutritional qualities.
