As your body fat goes up inflammation increases in your body, in turn generating excessive free radical damage¹. That is the conclusion of a new study measuring these relationships in women age 35-50. Undoubtedly, this data holds true for any overweight person of any age.

Extra pounds of fat generate excessive inflammation, in turn setting off a domino effect of free radical damage. This means that any overweight person has a much higher need for antioxidants to protect themselves from disease. For example, high levels of free radicals damage your LDL cholesterol inducing it to form plaque in your arteries.

An overweight person who is eating poorly, gaining weight, yo-yo dieting, or simply can't lose weight has really got to ramp up on antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients. When you are gradually losing weight and consistently exercising this problem subsides in direct relationship to how much better you feel. When you reach an ideal weight and maintain your fitness you will add quality years to your life.

Many people think free radicals are only caused by the sun's radiation, exposure to toxic chemicals, or excessive stress. This new study drives home the point that free radicals are also caused by excessive fat. Controlling weight by managing inflammation is a far different way of supporting your health and enhancing your metabolism than the old calorie counting methods.