OXYGEN AND FREE RADICALS They are able to repair damaged molecules, preventing a destruction chain reaction. Why do plants contain highly potent antioxidants? During the process of photosynthesis (the conversion of sunlight to chemicals), a huge number of free radicals are produced. A plant requires a high concentration of antioxidants to protect itself against cellular damage. Plant pigments, primarily carotenoids and flavonoids, are largely responsible for this protection. Research has shown by ingesting these plant compounds, humans are similarly protected. Research also shows that antioxidants can work synergistically with each other. FREE RADICALS AND AGING: The cell fixes much of the damage done to nuclear DNA. However, damaged mitochondrial DNA cannot be readily fixed. Therefore, extensive mitochondrial DNA damage accumulates over time and shuts down mitochondria, causing cells to die and the organism to age. Very few individuals, if any, reach their potential maximum life span; instead they die prematurely of a wide variety of diseases - the vast majority being "free radical" diseases."  Because free radicals are created when we burn food, the more we eat, the more free radicals are created, and thus, more antioxidants we need. Antioxidants Slow Down Aging: Results of several studies suggest that consuming fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants may help slow down the aging process in both the body and the brain. Studies have shown that consuming high-antioxidant food can help prevent loss of long-term memory, and help brain cells retain their ability to respond to chemical stimuli. Antioxidants protect blood vessels against oxygen damage. Mammals fed anti-oxidants show up to a 30% increase in average lifespan! Topical and oral use of antioxidants facilitates skin repair and skin protection. Free radicals are generated in the skin mainly by its exposure to the sun. Oxidized LDL caused by free radicals leads to damage of cells, creates imbalances in electrolytes and minerals, and causes buildup of plaque can lead to clogging of the arteries, a major cause of high blood pressure and heart attacks. Many cardiovascular problems are attributed, at least in part, to free radical activity. Research data suggest that a diet high in antioxidants can help reverse or prevent arteriosclerosis. It was shown that cancer cell division was slowed down by treatment with an antioxidant. The cancer prevention plan proposed by Harvard School of Public Health suggests eating five (or more) servings of fruits and vegetables, high in antioxidants, a day. In addition, the plan suggests significantly reducing animal protein, animal fats, hydrogenated fats, and processed foods containing additives, preservatives, or pesticides. There is a lot of information out there, more than ever, about the active ingredients of healthy food, such as antioxidants. It is confusing because which product to use varies with each "expert's" opinion. Quantification of Antioxidant Capacity measured in ORAC units: We can measure the protection provided by antioxidants against either hydroxyl or peroxyl radicals in ORAC units. According to a study performed at the US Department of Agriculture Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, antioxidant properties of fruits and vegetables consumed by humans vary considerably. INSERT ORAC TABLET WITH Conclusory Sentence SHORT OF FOOD A Survey done by the National Research Council indicates that only 10% of the US population consumes five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. 1,800 ORAC units would be the average equivalent of eating 5 mixed servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Based on scientific evidence it is suggested that daily antioxidant intake has to be increased to between 3,000 and 5,000 ORAC units (per day per human subject) in order to reach a significant antioxidant capacity in blood plasma and other tissues. We are using a blend of fruit and vegetable extracts with a high amount of ORAC, as a supplement to your daily meals. Berry X™, our proprietary blend of concentrated fruit extracts and whole-fruit powders, contains the finest and rarest ingredients. We’ve selected wild blueberries from the barrens of Maine and eastern Canada, raspberries and strawberries from the rainy Pacific Northwest, bilberries from the chilly climate of Scandinavia, tree-ripened cherries from Michigan, grapes from the sunny vineyards of California, and cranberries from the bogs of New England. Berry X™: