Details on free radicals, free radical damage, and the role of antioxidants.
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Details on free radicals, free radical damage, and the role of antioxidants. What are Free Radicals?In a molecule, atoms are bound together by sharing electrons with other atoms. When weak bonds split, free radicals are formed. A free radical is a molecule with one electron missing. These free radicals are very unstable and attack the nearest stable molecules to get electrons. This results in a chain reaction and new free radicals are formed. Free Radical DamageNormally the body can handle these free radicals, but excessive free radicals can damage cells and are not good for health. If the free radicals take electrons from important components in the body, like protein, fat or DNA, they create health problems such as cataract, heart disease, arthritis, aging and cancer. Free radicals can also contribute to premature aging. What produces Free radicals?Free radicals are formed in the body due to several reasons. Some are given below.
Antioxidants and Free RadicalsAntioxidant DefinitionIt is not possible to give a simple antioxidant definition but it can be explained as below. As free radicals have deficiency of electrons, compounds are needed which can neutralize free radicals by donating their own electrons to free radicals but they themselves do not become free radicals in the process. This stops the electron-"stealing" chain reaction. The antioxidants themselves do not become free radicals by donating an electron because they are stable in either form. Antioxidants convert free radicals to harmless waste products that are eliminated from the body before any damage is done to the body. Thus the antioxidants act as scavengers, helping to prevent cell and tissue damage. Benefits of AntioxidantsThe antioxidants are very good for prevention of diseases like heart disease and cancers. The antioxidants like vitamin E may protect against cardiovascular disease by defending against plaque formation in the arteries. The antioxidants like vitamin C defend against cancers of the mouth, larynx and esophagus. Look for the natural foods rich in antioxidants. Also Read The Following Nutrition TopicsArticles On Nutrition Nutrition label Nutrition need for Preganant Woman Food Pyramid Iron rich foods Iron deficiency Nutrition chart daily need Water Soluble Vitamins Vitamin D Vitamin D deficiency symptoms Vitamin D levels & overdose Vitamin D High Foods Antiaging vitamins & supplements Essential Nutrients & Sources Food Minerals Protein Requirement & Function Calcium rich foods Soluble Fiber Foods Foods high in Trans fats High Carbohydrate Foods Low Carb Foods Fruit Carb Counter carbohydrate chart Carbohydrates in Vegetables Counter Sodium facts Foods High In Sodium Where is Sodium Found? Nutrition in Indian Food Types of fats Foods high in Omega 3 Calories in fruits, vegetables Calories in Meats, fish Food Glycemic index list Nutrition of dairy products Interesting Milk nutrition facts Fast food Nutrition Facts Vegetable Nutrition Chart Nuts Nurition Fruit Nurition Facts Lentils Nutrition Calories Chickpeas Nutrition Kidney beans Nutrition What is Junk Food Wheatgrass Benefits Nutrition Values of Fast Foods McDonalds Nutrition |
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The antioxidants can prevent free radical damage on your body.