Why Are Antioxidants Important?

Why are Antioxidants Important?

When oxidation occurs in the human body it can cause damage to cell membranes and essential structures like proteins, lipids, and DNA. The negative effects of oxidation are accellerated by stress, smoking cigarettes, and consuming alcohol, among other factors.

During oxygen metabolism, unstable molecules called free radicals are produced. These molecules steal electrons from other cells, leading to DNA damage and cellular harm. While the body can manage a certain level of free radicals and even requires them for proper function, excessive free radical buildup over time may cause irreversible damage. Excessive free radical damage has been linked to several health conditions, including vision loss, arthritis, neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, heart disease, premature aging, and certain cancers.

Antioxidants, found in various foods and supplements, help neutralize free radicals and may reduce the damage they cause. Key nutrient antioxidants include vitamins A, C, and E, as well as essential minerals like copper, zinc, and selenium.  Beyond these, certain plant compounds known as phytochemicals are believed to offer even stronger antioxidant benefits than vitamins or minerals. These non-nutrient antioxidants include lycopene in tomatoes and anthocyanins found in cranberries.