Antioxidant

Antioxidants are molecules that inhibit the oxidation of other molecules by neutralizing free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and damage to cells and tissues in the body. Antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing diseases associated with aging and environmental stress.

Overview and Function

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize or eliminate them. Free radicals are unstable molecules with unpaired electrons, which makes them highly reactive. They can interact with cellular components, such as DNA, proteins, and lipids, causing cellular damage and potentially leading to diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.

Antioxidants work by donating an electron to the free radical, neutralizing it and preventing it from causing damage. They thus act as a protective mechanism against oxidative stress.

Types of Antioxidants

Antioxidants can be categorized into two types: endogenous (produced by the body) and exogenous (obtained from the diet).

Endogenous antioxidants include superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase.

Exogenous antioxidants, often obtained from dietary sources, include:

• Vitamin C: A water-soluble vitamin found in citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli.
• Vitamin E: A fat-soluble vitamin present in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
• Beta-Carotene: A precursor to vitamin A, found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
• Selenium: A mineral found in Brazil nuts, fish, and poultry.
• Flavonoids: Plant compounds found in tea, red wine, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
• Resveratrol: A compound found in grapes and red wine.
• Curcumin: The active component of turmeric.
• Coenzyme Q10: A naturally occurring compound found in meat and seafood.

Health Benefits and Risks

A diet rich in antioxidants is associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. However, the use of antioxidant supplements is a topic of ongoing debate. While some studies suggest benefits, others have not found any effect, or even potential harm. Therefore, getting antioxidants from a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is currently the best recommendation.

See Also

• Free radical (chemistry)
• Oxidative stress
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E

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