I used to think oxygen is the basis of our life (and it still is, more to follow). That’s until I came to terms like oxidation, antioxidant, and free radicals. I started to have doubts about the omnipotence of oxygen.
You see “oxygen plays an important role in the energy metabolism of living organisms.” It provides our cells with the electron to produce energy (oxidation). Take running for instance. We inhale in oxygen, supply it to muscle cells which in turn move our legs. Carbon dioxide and water are exhaled as waste by-products.
In theory, this works perfectly. Except “certain types of altered oxygen molecules called “Free Radicals” will damage our own cells and even our DNA, causing degeneration and diseases such as cancer.” Yes, you read it right, CANCER.
This is where the antioxidant comes in. Foods containing antioxidants, like blueberries and dark chocolate, can help to neutralize the oxidation properties of those invading free radicals. Any wonder why so many commercial products are labeled as “antioxidant”?
What’s bottom line?
Exercise and nutrition are indispensable in maintaining our body’s delicate balance. It does not have to be fancy as long as you remember the goal is to keep the oxygen as the enabler of life and the antioxidant as the enabler in delaying the free radical effect of aging.
Are you getting enough clean oxygen?
Running with Buddha 