In the past, I’ve referenced antioxidants, but I’ve never elaborated on what they are, what they do, and why they are beneficial to your health. Today we’ll take a look at all that and more.
Probably the biggest question in many people’s minds is ‘What are antioxidants, anyway?’. Antioxidants are molecules that diminish the amount of oxidation occurring within the cells of the body. Oxidation is when molecules react with oxygen to break down into simpler molecules. This breakdown releases particles that are themselves likely to damage other molecules they interact with; these are called free radicals.
While this process is normal and natural in chemistry (rust, for instance, is formed by oxidation of metal), it is undesirable within the body. Therefore, the body produces molecules specifically designed to counteract oxidation. These are antioxidants. They effectively control the amount of oxidation taking place. Antioxidants, then, act as a buffer to keep critical molecules throughout the body from being destroyed by stray reactive particles.
Free radicals can come both from normal molecular activity within the body, and also from external sources. Certain caustic environments, many food sources, and exposure to natural phenomena (like intense sunlight) are all thought to increase free-radical activity in the body.
The body naturally produces antioxidants, but over time the number of free radicals within the body tends to increase faster than antioxidant production can keep up with. Antioxidants can also be consumed both in raw foods (garlic, for instance), some fruit and vegetable derivatives (such as red wine), and through supplements.
Lack of antioxidants in the body is believed to be a contributing factor to many aging-related illnesses, including cancer. It is believed a significant source of antioxidant supplementation can reduce or eliminate many cancer risks and slow the natural progression of aging on the body. While they won’t keep you young forever, they may help keep you looking and feeling more energetic and healthier for years.
If you aren’t taking antioxidants, you’ll probably be just fine. If you are concerned about cancer or other aging processes affecting your life, you may want to supplement. In moderate quantities, antioxidants are definitely beneficial to your health.
Resources:
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Healthy thoughts,
Jeff
