AntiOxidants

Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or reduce cell damage caused by free radicals.

What are free radicals?

Unstable molecules: Free radicals are unstable molecules that have an unpaired electron.
Highly reactive: This makes them highly reactive and can easily steal electrons from other molecules, causing damage to cells and tissues.
Sources of free radicals: Free radicals are produced naturally in the body as a byproduct of normal metabolic processes. They can also be caused by external factors such as pollution, smoking, UV radiation, and certain chemicals.

How antioxidants work

Neutralize free radicals: Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals. They donate an electron to a free radical, stabilizing it and preventing it from causing further damage.
Cell protection: Antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative damage by neutralizing free radicals, which are implicated in many chronic diseases.

Types of antioxidants

Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, berries, and other fruits and vegetables.
Vitamin E: Found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
Beta-carotene: Found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
Lycopene: Found in tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit.
Selenium: Found in seafood, meat, and Brazil nuts.
Flavonoids: Found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine.

Antioxidant benefits

May reduce risk of chronic diseases:
Heart disease: Antioxidants may help protect the heart by preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol (“bad”) cholesterol.
Cancer: Antioxidants may help prevent the formation of cancer cells and slow the growth of existing tumors.
Neurological diseases: Antioxidants may help protect brain cells from damage, which may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Age-related macular degeneration: Antioxidants may help protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration, which is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
Antioxidant sources:

Diet: The best way to get antioxidants is to eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts.
Supplements: Antioxidant supplements are also available, but it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements.