Antioxidants; Substances that Can Stop or Slow Cell Damage Caused By Free Radicals
Antioxidants are natural or man-made substances that may delay or prevent some types of cell damage. They may help protect cells against free radicals, which may play an important role in cancer, heart disease, and other diseases. Free radicals are molecules produced when body breaks down food or when the body is exposed to radiation or tobacco smoke. Antioxidants are found in certain foods and may help prevent some of the damage caused by free radicals by neutralizing them. They are found in many foods, including vegetables and fruits. There are hundreds, probably thousands, of different substances that can act as antioxidants. Antioxidants Antioxidants are substances that slow or prevent damage to cells and tissues. These compounds are produced by the body and are also referred to as free radicals. They are natural byproducts of metabolism but can also be a result of environmental stressors. Too many free radicals can result in oxidative stress, a condition that has been linked