We all want to stay vital and healthy into our old age and the secret to this resides in our ability to protect and regenerate our cells. Over time, cells are affected by a process called oxidation, where free radicals are produced internally by our metabolic processes and externally by things like pollution, cigarette smoke and UV exposure. These free radicals are countered by substances called antioxidants, which are also produced internally and obtained through the diet.
When we have enough antioxidants the free radicals are neutralized and we enjoy good health and longevity. This process is called cellular detoxification.
When we lack antioxidants the free radicals can cause damage to cells and contribute to aging. This is often referred to as ‘oxidative stress’. Oxidative stress has been implicated in the development of serious conditions, including; arthritis, cancer, heart disease, respiratory disease, immune deficiency, fatigue and macular degeneration.
Oxidative stress also inhibits the cells ability to produce ATP, which gives us energy. A lack of antioxidants can contribute to fatigue and reduce our bodies ability to use oxygen for fuel. Brain cells use oxygen, (up to 20% of the bodies total requirement!) to support brain cell growth, neuroplasticity and clear and healthy cognitive function.
There are thousands of types of antioxidants. Well known ones include flavonoids, polyphenols, catechins, flavones and phytoestrogens, collectively referred to as ‘phytonutrients’, derived from the Greek word for plant and referring to the fact they are all contained in plant-based foods. Each antioxidant has a different function and they are not interchangeable, which is why it is important to include a wide range of brightly coloured fruit and vegetables in your diet as foods with rich, vibrant colours often contain the most antioxidants.
Foods that contain a particularly high level of antioxidants and other nutrients, such as minerals, are often referred to as ‘superfoods’. Superfoods are a good way to obtain these phytonutrients so our bodies have access to them despite our busy lifestyles and increased exposure to free radicals in our modern world.
Wonder Foods Mega 8 is a powerful superfoods formula that can be easily added to yoghurt, smoothies, water, juices, bliss balls, slices or other recipes. Mega 8 is vegan, non-GMO, all natural and certified organic, with natural sweeteners Steviol, (from organic stevia leaf) and Thaumatin, (from Katemfe fruit).
Eight different superfoods are included in Mega 8. Cacao, goji berry, spirulina, green barley grass, acai berry, moringa leaf, camu camu and chlorella contain a wide range of these energy boosting, vitality building nutrients, giving you antioxidants as well as amino acids, vitamins, minerals and both soluble and insoluble fibre to help you maintain your youthful spark for years to come!
Made by cold-pressing unroasted cacao beans, cacao powder is chocolate in its rawest form, this method retains the nutrients normally lost during processing. Cacao is high in magnesium, zinc, iron, calcium, beta-carotene and omega 6 fatty acids as well as the all-important antioxidant polyphenols.
Goji berries, sometimes called wolf berries, grow on an evergreen shrub native to China and the Himalayas. They have been extensively studied for the health benefits associated with their high levels of antioxidants including; Vitamins C and A, beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, lycopene, cryptoxanthin and lutein. They also contain amino acids, minerals and unsaturated fatty acids alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid.
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that grows in both fresh and salt water. As well as being high in iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium and calcium, Spirulina contains B-group vitamins thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, pyridoxine, and vitamin C.
Green Barley Grass is famous for its alkalizing action due to its high levels of minerals. It is made from the young shoots of barley before the grains and stem are formed. Barley grass supports digestive health by providing the sodium required for hydrochloric acid production. Chlorophyll is also abundant in green barley grass.
Acai berry, from the Amazon rainforest have a deep, rich purple colour, caused by its high levels of anthocyanins. These potent antioxidants have anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and immune boosting benefits.
Moringa leaf is a source of phytosterols; stigmasterol, sitosterol and kampesterol. These are substances that improve hormone balance naturally. Moringa leaves are used to support the nutrition of babies and children all over the world. Moringa is native to India where it has been used medicinally for thousands of years.
Camu-camu is best known for its high levels of vitamin C, the antioxidant that supports our immunity and is also required to produce collagen for healthy skin, bones and muscles. Anthocyanins and ellagic acid are other antioxidants in camu-camu that have a synergistic effect with the vitamin C.
Chlorella is the ingredient that completes this powerful anti-aging and cellular detoxification formula with its high protein levels, vitamin B12 and a wide range of nutrients, including chlorophyll. It comes from an algae that grows in fresh water.
