Sunday, March 25, 2007

Why Antioxidants are Important for Hepatitis C Patients

For anyone living with Hepatitis C, supporting your liver in every way possible with the intent to slow the progression of the disease is vital. A healthy diet rich in antioxidants is one easy and effective way you can achieve this goal.

A biproduct of the cellular oxidation witnessed when a substance is broken down, free radicals are negatively charged electrons that are no longer attached to atoms. This creates a chemical instability capable of damaging the walls of cells as well the genetic materials contained within them. Antioxidants combat this process by reducing the damage caused by free radicals.

Studies have shown that oxidation plays a large role in the advancement of liver disease, alternately, various studies showed the far-ranging benefits of antioxidants, making them vitally important to halting the progression of liver disease. From reducing inflammation of the liver as well as the oxidative stress of Hepatitis C to slowing the progression of cirrhosis, antioxidants have proven to be a highly effective addition to the health regimen of anyone with a compromised liver. In fact, evidence suggests that antioxidants impair HCV replication, improve liver enzyme levels and help to protect against liver cell damage. All of these benefits help make the most common medical treatment, interferon anti-viral therapy more effective.

Antioxidants are also easily accessible, found in many brightly colored vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, kale and spinach as well as some of our favorite fruits like strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, melons, mangos and apricots. You'll also find them in the form of easy to take supplements, however they are most easily absorbed from food sources.

The research showing the tremendous benefit that can be garnered by simply incorporating antioxidants into your diet should not be ignored. Learn more about how antioxidants can help those suffering with Hepatitis C by reading the full article here.

About the author :

This article was prepared for Hepatitis-Central.com. Visit us to learn more about liver health.

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