The senior population around the world is significantly increasing with the expectation that older adults aged 65 and over will make up 16% of the world’s population by 2050 (Global Health and Aging, 2011). This population surge could be the result of a decline in fertility, along with inflation in the population’s maximum lifespan (Global Health and Aging, 2011). Chronic diseases including cancer, diabetes and heart disease are the leading cause of death worldwide, specifically for those aged 65 and older (Bareuther, 2009). In today’s generation, about 80% of seniors are living with at least one chronic condition and as high as 50% are living with multiple chronic conditions (Health Aging: Improving and Extending Quality of Life Among Older
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The consumption of fruits and vegetables is a crucial component in maintaining a well-balanced diet as they provide an essential source of nutrients, dietary fibre and phytochemicals (Boeing et al., 2012). Recently there has been evidence suggesting that the antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables may be a key component in protecting the body against unwanted disease and improving overall health (Fusco et al., 2007). This paper looks examines the use of antioxidants as a preventative measure against age-related chronic diseases.
Literature Review on Antioxidants and its Effect on Various Chronic Diseases:
Growing evidence suggests that oxidative damage on low-density lipoproteins (LDL) may be responsible for the development of atherosclerosis (Kushi et al., 1996). Oxidized LDL increases the formation of plaque through foam cells and thickening of fatty streaks, which can eventually lead to coronary heart disease (Kushi et al., 1996). Arteriosclerosis is a deadly manifestation of coronary heart disease, which leads it to be the number one cause of premature death around the world (Boeing et al.,
The consumption of fruits and vegetables is a crucial component in maintaining a well-balanced diet as they provide an essential source of nutrients, dietary fibre and phytochemicals (Boeing et al., 2012). Recently there has been evidence suggesting that the antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables may be a key component in protecting the body against unwanted disease and improving overall health (Fusco et al., 2007). This paper looks examines the use of antioxidants as a preventative measure against age-related chronic diseases.
Literature Review on Antioxidants and its Effect on Various Chronic Diseases:
Growing evidence suggests that oxidative damage on low-density lipoproteins (LDL) may be responsible for the development of atherosclerosis (Kushi et al., 1996). Oxidized LDL increases the formation of plaque through foam cells and thickening of fatty streaks, which can eventually lead to coronary heart disease (Kushi et al., 1996). Arteriosclerosis is a deadly manifestation of coronary heart disease, which leads it to be the number one cause of premature death around the world (Boeing et al.,