To understand the way that free radicals and antioxidants interact, let me first explain a bit about cells and molecules. Our bodies are made up of cells; cells are made up of molecules, and molecules are made up of one or more atoms joined by chemical bonds. Molecules need to be stable, but if weak chemical bonds split, free radicals are formed. They’re unstable and attack the nearest stable molecules, trying to ‘steal’ a partner electron. The attacked molecule loses its electron and becomes unstable itself, starting a chain reaction that eventually disrupts living cells.
What causes the formation of free radicals?
Some free radicals arise normally during metabolism. Sometimes the body’s immune system’s cells purposefully create them to neutralise viruses and bacteria. However, environmental factors such as pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke and herbicides can also spawn free radicals. Normally, the body can handle free radicals, but if antioxidants are unavailable, or if the free-radical production becomes excessive, damage can occur. Of particular importance is that free radical damage accumulates with age. Free radicals have also been implicated in a number of diseases and conditions that become more common as we age, including dementia, cancer and heart disease.
How Antioxidants help
The vitamins C and E are thought to protect the body against the destructive effects of free radicals. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals by donating one of their own electrons, ending the electron-”stealing” reaction, and they are still stable afterwards, helping prevent cellular damage and disease. Vitamin E: The most abundant fat-soluble antioxidant in the body is one of the most efficient chain-breaking antioxidants available. It’s the primary defender against oxidation and lipid peroxidation (creation of unstable molecules containing more oxygen than is usual).
Vitamin C: The most abundant water-soluble antioxidant in the body, acting mainly in cellular fluid. Of particular note in combating free-radical formation caused by pollution and cigarette smoke, and also helps return vitamin E to its active form.
Vitamin E may also protect against cardiovascular disease by defending against LDL oxidation and artery-clogging plaque formation.
Many studies have correlated high vitamin C intakes with low rates of cancer, particularly cancers of the mouth, larynx and oesophagus.
The best way to ensure adequate intake of the antioxidant nutrients is through a balanced diet of 5-8 servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
The question is could conquering free radical damage be the answer to lasting youth??
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