The Role of Antioxidants in Maintaining Health and Fighting Free Radicals

Antioxidants are compounds that help protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals, thus promoting overall health and well-being.
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Free Radicals And Antioxidants | Antioxidant-rich Foods | Health Benefits Of Antioxidants | Free Radicals | Antioxidant Foods
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Antioxidant FAQ


Image credit: nm.org

What is an antioxidant molecule?

"Antioxidant" is a general term for any compound that can counteract unstable molecules called free radicals that damage DNA, cell membranes, and other parts of cells. Because free radicals lack a full complement of electrons, they steal electrons from other molecules and damage those molecules in the process.

What are antioxidants and how do they work?

Less commonly, “antioxidant” may refer to compounds used industrially to prevent oxidative damage to food, equipment, and other man-made items. Within cells, antioxidants act to protect vital molecules, such as DNA, from oxidizing molecules that can appear inside of cells. They can accomplish this in several ways:

What is the role of antioxidants in preventing oxidation?

Antioxidants neutralise the effects of free radicals, substances that damage the body`s cells, and have a role in disease prevention. Antioxidants scavenge free radicals from the body's cells, and prevent or reduce the damage caused by oxidation.

What are antioxidants & how do they work?

Antioxidants are molecules that can help your body fight off harmful free radicals, which have been linked to health conditions like diabetes and cancer. They’re found in many plant-based foods. Vitamin E and C are examples. You may have heard a lot of talk about antioxidants. However, few people know what they are or how they work.

Antioxidant References

If you want to know more about Antioxidant, consider exploring links below:

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