Free radicals and antioxidants are two terms that are often discussed when it comes to
maintaining good health. Both play important roles in the body and understanding the
relationship between them is essential for leading a healthy lifestyle.
Free radicals are molecules that have one or more unpaired electrons in their outer shells. This makes them highly reactive and unstable, and they can easily damage other molecules in the body by stealing electrons from them. This process is known as oxidative stress and can cause damage to cells, tissues, and organs. Free radicals are generated in the body as a natural byproduct of metabolism, but they can also be produced by external factors such as exposure to environmental toxins, radiation, and cigarette smoke.¹
Antioxidants, on the other hand, are molecules that can neutralize free radicals by donating electrons to them, without becoming unstable themselves. This makes them effective at preventing oxidative stress and the damage that it can cause. Antioxidants are found in a variety of foods, particularly in fruits and vegetables, and they can also be taken as supplements.²
The body has a natural defence system against free radicals, which includes enzymes that can neutralize them. However, this defence system can become overwhelmed when there is an excess of free radicals in the body, which can lead to oxidative stress and the associated damage. This is why it is important to maintain a balance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body.
Oxidative stress has been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. It can also contribute to the aging process, as well as damage to the skin, eyes, and other organs.
There are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce oxidative stress and maintain a balance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. One of the most important is to eat a healthy diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, which are a good source of antioxidants. Coffee, Green Tea, Dark chocolate, Blueberries, Broccoli, and Potatoes are good sources of antioxidants. Other steps include getting regular exercise, avoiding exposure to environmental toxins and radiation, and quitting smoking. In addition, some people may benefit from taking antioxidant supplements. However, it is best to talk to a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.
In conclusion, free radicals and antioxidants play important roles in the body, and maintaining a balance between them is essential for good health. By eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and taking other steps to reduce oxidative stress, it is possible to support the body’s natural defence system and reduce the risk of a number of health problems.
