Free radicals are atoms or molecules with unpaired electrons. They are highly unstable and short lived, react easily with other molecules, and can inflict considerable damage to our cells.
High levels of free radicals may cause much of the damage associated with aging.
Antioxidants are molecules that can stop free radicals from reacting with other molecules, limiting the potential damage to cells.
Some free radicals are produced normally in the body through normal metabolic processes. However, significant numbers of free radicals are not normal, and can be produced by toxins, poor lifestyle choices, and environmental factors such as:
- Excessive physical and emotional stress
- Over exercising
- Pollutants in air, food, and water
- Sunlight
- Radiation
- Medication
- Active and passive cigarette smoke
- Excesses of free radicals lead to a problem known as oxidative stress.
Watch an example of Free Radical induced Oxidative Stress and protection with Antioxidants