Are We Doing Enough to Slow Down Oxidation?

From the moment we’re born, our bodies begin to age. One of the main drivers of this process is oxidation—a natural but damaging effect caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals. How quickly oxidation progresses depends largely on our lifestyle choices and how well we care for ourselves from the inside out.

So, are we really doing enough to slow it down? Let’s take a closer look.

Why Oxidation Matters?

Our immune system and skin are on the front line of this battle. The immune system protects us from bacteria, viruses, and other invaders, while the skin shields our body from the external world. Both are constantly under attack from oxidative stress.

Free radicals damage cells and DNA—every single cell in your body is hit around 70,000 times a day. Left unchecked, this damage contributes to ageing and has been linked to almost every major illness, including diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, arthritis, and more.

Thankfully, our bodies have a natural defence: antioxidants. These molecules neutralise free radicals, protecting our cells from harm. As Dr. Richard Cutler, Director of Anti-Ageing Research at the NIH, once said:

“The amount of antioxidants you maintain in your body is directly proportional to how long you will live.”

Where Free Radicals Come From?

While oxidation is a natural process, many of our daily habits accelerate it. Free radicals are generated by:

• Smoking and alcohol

• Stress

• Air pollution and exhaust fumes

• Excessive sun exposure

• Radiation

• Even over-exercising

The good news? Just as lifestyle speeds up oxidation, lifestyle changes can help slow it down.

The Role of Nutrition

The World Health Organisation recommends 7–10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day (about 600 grams) to maintain the right antioxidant levels. Deep-coloured fruits and vegetables—reds, greens, purples—are especially powerful.

But antioxidants aren’t the whole story. Our bodies also rely on a balance of macronutrients (carbs, protein, fats, water) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). While most of us get enough macronutrients, many fall short on the micronutrients our bodies need for energy, bone strength, and cellular repair.

Unfortunately, busy lifestyles, taste preferences, and health issues often mean we don’t eat enough nutrient-rich foods daily. The result? Faster oxidation, premature ageing, and a higher risk of disease.

Signs of Low Antioxidant Levels

Because we can’t see what’s happening inside, most people don’t realise they’re deficient in antioxidants and micronutrients until health problems arise. Common warning signs include:

• Constant fatigue and low energy

• Poor sleep

• Joint or back pain

• Frequent colds or infections

Often, people treat the symptoms without addressing the root cause—leaving the “oxidation time bomb” ticking away.

My Personal Journey

I’ll admit—I didn’t always take oxidation seriously. Growing up, I ate and drank without much thought, relied on my “Asian gene advantage,” and baked in the sun without sunscreen. I knew nothing about antioxidants, micronutrients, or the long-term importance of skincare and nutrition.

That changed about three years ago, when I joined a business focused on health and wellness. I learned how crucial it is to care for the body inside and out through balanced nutrition, supplements, and skincare.

One tool that transformed my understanding was the BioPhotonic Scanner—a Nobel Prize-winning technology that measures skin carotenoid antioxidant levels in just 30 seconds. Unlike blood tests, which reflect only the past 24 hours, the scanner shows your antioxidant status over the past 8 weeks.

My first scan was a wake-up call: just 28,000, a “weak” score despite my age and genetics. That moment motivated me to change. I adopted a balanced diet, regular exercise, and daily supplements. Within 18 months, my score skyrocketed to 113,000, one of the highest in Europe at the time.

What did that mean for me?

• I slept better.

• My energy lasted all day.

• I stopped catching colds.

• Even my hay fever of 20+ years has almost disappeared.

In short, my immune system became stronger, and I felt healthier than I had in years.

Why Supplementation Matters?

Even with a balanced diet, it’s difficult to consistently reach the antioxidant and micronutrient levels needed to protect against free radicals. That’s why supplementation plays a key role. Think of it as a safety net for the days when your plate isn’t packed with enough colour and variety.

Yes, supplements are an investment—but here’s the truth: if you don’t invest in your health now, you may end up paying much more later when illness strikes.

Final Thoughts

Slowing down oxidation isn’t about stopping ageing—it’s about ageing better. By fuelling your body with antioxidants, nourishing it with micronutrients, managing stress, and protecting your skin, you can significantly reduce the damage caused by free radicals.

I’ve seen the difference in my own life, and I’ve watched countless others transform their health the same way. The real question is: are you doing enough to slow down your body’s oxidation?

To find out more about the latest development regarding our BioPhotonic Scanner, please go to my Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/carotenoidantioxidantsscanner

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