Oxidants, or free radicals, can cause cell damage and lead to chronic diseases. Antioxidants reduce the effect of these harmful molecules and repair damage already suffered by cells. They can be produced within the body or found in foods, such as dark green leafy vegetables and fruits high in vitamins A, C, E, and beta-carotene. Raw fruits and vegetables are best for maximum concentration and absorption. Dietary supplements are also available.
The prefix “anti” means against, in opposition, or corrective in nature. To understand antioxidants, it helps to learn what exactly these agents oppose and correct.
Within the human body, millions of processes are occurring at all times. These processes require oxygen. Unfortunately, the same life-giving oxygen can create harmful side effects, or oxidizing substances, that cause cell damage and lead to chronic disease.
Oxidants, commonly known as ‘free radicals’, are also introduced through external sources such as sun exposure or pollution. Other means include stress, as well as things people put into their bodies, such as alcoholic beverages, unhealthy foods, and cigarette smoke.
In much the same way that oxidation creates rust, causing it to crack on the surface of inanimate objects, oxidation inside the body causes cells to rupture. The free radicals produced by this degradation attack healthy cells, usually DNA, proteins and fats. This chain of events weakens immune functions as well as accelerating the aging process, and is also linked to several diseases such as cataracts, various forms of cancer and heart disease. Some studies point to possible links to arthritis and several other chronic conditions.
Antioxidants, or anti-oxidation agents, reduce the effect of dangerous oxidants by binding together with these harmful molecules, decreasing their destructive power. These agents can also help repair damage already suffered by cells.
Some antioxidant enzymes are produced within the body. The most commonly recognized of these natural antioxidants are superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione. Superoxide dismutase modifies the structure of oxidants and breaks them down into hydrogen peroxide. Catalase, in turn, breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and tiny particles or oxygen gases. Glutathione is a detoxifying agent, which binds to various toxins to change their shape so they are able to leave the body as waste.
Other antioxidant agents are found in foods, such as dark green leafy vegetables. Products high in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene are thought to be the most beneficial. These nutrients are commonly found in fruits and vegetables, the ones with the strongest colors being the healthiest. Orange and red peppers, tomatoes, spinach and carrots are examples.
Choosing raw rather than cooked fruits and vegetables ensures maximum concentration and best absorption. Dietary supplements are also available for those who are not consuming enough antioxidant-producing foods.
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