In addition to ingredients with low caloric density, leading longevity diets today are also rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are nutrients that prevent or slow oxidative damage to the body. When cells in the body use oxygen, they produce free radicals that cause damage at the cellular level, impairing cell function and immunity.

Antioxidants that inhibit the damage from free radicals are instrumental in delaying the onset of many diseases related to the aging process in both humans and companion animals.

Antioxidants found in BLUE Longevity

Many veterinarians and animal nutritionists believe antioxidants can provide a variety of health benefits for cats.

Beta-carotene

Found in carrots, spinach and broccoli, beta-carotene gobbles up free radicals and has been shown to help reduce the risk of developing certain cancers and heart disease, and slow the progression of cataracts.

Lutein

Found in vegetables like spinach, lutein has been shown to lower the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration (loss of vision due to damage to the retina).

Lycopene

Found in tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables, lycopene has been shown to help reduce the risk of developing certain cancers, heart disease and macular degeneration.

Selenium

Found in whole grains and fish, selenium has been shown to lessen the impact of free radicals and help reduce the risk of developing certain cancers and heart disease.

Vitamin A

Found in carrots and spinach, Vitamin A has been shown to help promote healthy skin, strong teeth and bones and good eyesight.

Vitamin C

Found in vegetables such as broccoli and fruit such as blueberries, Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and has been shown to help protect the body from damaging elements. Vitamin C is also essential for collagen function, an integral part of blood vessel walls, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, skin and bones.

Vitamin E

Found in whole grains, spinach and vegetable oils, Vitamin E has been shown to help protect against damage to cell membranes. Cells are very susceptible to damage without Vitamin E, which acts as a free radical scavenger to help save cell membranes.

Zinc

Found in fish meal and barley, zinc has been shown to help support the immune system and promote healthy skin.

The Top Ten Antioxidant Foods for Humans

The role antioxidants play to help reduce the risk of developing heart disease and certain cancers, reduce blood pressure and slow the affects of aging in humans has been known for years. Antioxidants are found in a number of key foods. Here are the top ten antioxidant-rich foods for humans—six of which are found in BLUE Longevity cat food.

Berries

Foods like blueberries contain antioxidants that have been shown to delay the onset of age-related loss of cognitive function.

Broccoli

Has been shown to reduce the risk of developing certain cancers and heart disease.

Tomatoes

Have been shown to help reduce the risk of developing certain cancer types, macular degeneration and help maintain mental functions. Tomatoes contain lycopene, which has been shown to be twice as powerful an antioxidant as
beta-carotene.

Red Grapes

Contain highly potent antioxidants that act as free radical scavengers, devouring them before they damage the body.

Garlic

Has been known to help reduce the risk of developing cancer, heart disease and the effects of aging.

Spinach

Contains lutein, which works to maintain pigment in the eye.

Tea

Has been shown to help reduce the risk of developing certain cancers, heart disease, stroke and other diseases.

Carrots

Contain beta-carotene, a potent antioxidant that has been shown to help reduce the risk of developing certain cancers and heart disease, and to slow the progression of cataracts.

Soy

Has been shown to help reduce the risk of developing certain cancers, osteoporosis and lower cholesterol.

Whole Grains

Whole Grains contain Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant shown to reduce the risk of developing certain cancers.