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ANTIOXIDANTS ARE POWERFUL natural
substances that can counteract cellular
damage, fight cancer, prevent heart disease,
and delay age-related conditions such as
arthritis and macular degeneration. Scientific
studies have in fact shown antioxidants can
repair or prevent cell damage and appear to
play a role in disease prevention.
BEST SOURCES
Would you believe beans are not only
loaded with fiber, they are one of the most
antioxidant-rich foods you can eat? Small
red beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans
Perhaps you've heard how certain berries and varieties of tea have cancer-
fighting properties. How much stock can you place in all the antioxidant hype?
NOTHING RUINS A weekend in the woods quicker than red, itchy,
blistered skin—the result of coming into contact with oil secreted by
poison ivy. Western poison ivy can be found throughout Colorado; spot
it by looking for a shrub with smooth leaves growing in groups of three.
If you visit Pacific coast states or Nevada, watch out for another
low-lying, triple-leaf threat—Pacific poison oak. Poison oak's leaves
are smooth, glossy, and indented.
Both poison ivy and poison oak can have yellow or green flowers
with white, yellow, or green berries.
COVER AND CLEAN
Follow these tips to minimize the chances of an unpleasant
encounter with poisonous plants.
• Stay on the trail when hiking.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when exploring the woods.
• Bathe any pet suspected of rubbing against poison ivy or poison
oak—your dog or cat probably won't develop a reaction, but the
plants' oil can cling to fur.
If your skin touches poison ivy or poison oak, scrub gently with soap
and cool water as soon as possible. Over-the-counter corticosteroid
creams may reduce itching until the rash clears up.
Concerned about a severe or persistent rash? Call 303.485.3559 to
schedule a consultation with a Milestone Medical Group physician.
Green Tea Time
are among the top five antioxidant foods.
The other two are wild blueberries and
cultivated blueberries.
Studies suggest the antioxidants in green
tea lower the risk for certain cancers,
including breast cancer, prostate cancer, and
colorectal cancer.
WORD OF CAUTION
Research is not encouraging for those who
are tempted to get their antioxidant fix in
a supplement. In fact, several studies have
shown that taking antioxidant supplements
offers no benefit or can even backfire,
increasing the risk of cancer or early death.
Rather, a balanced diet of fresh—not
processed—foods, especially fruits and
vegetables in a rainbow of colors, is
the best way to get the protective effects
antioxidants have to offer.
BOTTOM LINE
Enjoy a cup of
green tea knowing it is
not only giving you an extra
caffeine kick—it may be
helping to lower your risk of
certain diseases.
303.651.5111 LUHCARES.ORG
Roughing It—
Smoothly
Learning how to identify
Camping Enemy No. 1—
poison ivy—just might
save your outing this summer.
