Antioxidants 101: A Beginner’s Guide to These Powerful Nutrients and Their Health Benefits
Antioxidants are substances that can neutralize harmful molecules called free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that are produced as a result of normal cellular processes, such as metabolism, but also as a result of environmental factors like exposure to pollution and ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. These free radicals can damage cells and DNA, leading to a range of health problems, including chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
Antioxidants work by reacting with and neutralizing free radicals, preventing them from causing damage to cells and DNA. This process is known as "oxidation," which is why antioxidants are also called "redox agents." The body has its own natural antioxidant defenses, but these can become overwhelmed by an excessive am...