Oxidative stress is the oxidizing of cells (similar to an apple when cut open turns brown) and at times can be a damaging process. The journal entitled “Oxidative stress and epilepsy: literature review” recognizes that experimental science has hypothesized that oxidative stress is a contributing factor to the onset and evolution of epilepsy. The review is found here
What is oxidative stress? The imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. When this imbalance occurs damage to cells and the neurons with the central nervous system can occur. Ultimately the body needs increased antioxidants to combat free radicals.
What can you do? Increase your antioxidant levels through foods by consuming:
Allium sulphur compounds: Leeks, onions, garlic
• Anthocyanins: Eggplant, grapes, berries
• Beta carotene: Pumpkin, mangoes, apricots, carrots, spinach, parsley
• Catechins: Red wine, tea
• Copper: Seafood, lean meat, milk, nuts, legumes
• Cryptoxanthins: Red peppers, pumpkin, mangoes
• Flavonoids: Tea, green tea, red wine, citrus fruits, onion, apples
• Indoles: Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower
• Lignans: Sesame seeds, bran, whole grains, vegetables
• Lutein: Corn, leafy greens (such as spinach)
• Lycopene: Tomatoes, pink grapefruit, watermelon
• Manganese: Seafood, lean meat, milk, nuts
• Polyphenols: Thyme, oregano
• Selenium: Seafood, offal, lean meat, whole grains
• Vitamin C: Oranges, berries, kiwi fruit, mangoes, broccoli, spinach, peppers
• Vitamin E: Vegetable oils, nuts, avocados, seeds, whole grains
• Zinc: Seafood, lean meat, milk, nuts
• Zoochemicals: Red meat, offal, fish
Read more at http://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-eats/nutrition/40-foods-high-in-antioxidants#p2FkiOj2WfFX3qpg.99
As I mentioned in my webinar address oxidative stress is addressing only 1 of 7 areas of brain healing. It’s important that the approach is comprehensive.
Be well,
Lynn
