Antioxidants: The body's natural defense against free radicals

Antioxidants are essential compounds that protect the cells in the body from damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals. Free radicals are formed as a natural by-product of the body's metabolic processes, but also as a result of external influences such as smoking, pollution and UV radiation. These unstable molecules can attack cell structures such as proteins, lipids and DNA, which can cause inflammation, cell degradation and the development of chronic diseases.

How do antioxidants work?
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating an electron, stabilizing the free radicals and prevents them from damaging cells and tissues. This process, known as a redox reaction, is crucial to maintaining the body's cellular balance and protecting from oxidative stress. Antioxidants also act as "radical catchers" by sacrificing their own electrons to protect cell membranes, proteins and DNA from damage.

Sources of antioxidants
Antioxidants are found naturally in a variety of foods and are important components of a healthy diet. Good sources include:

• Fruits and vegetables: Berries, citrus fruits, spinach, broccoli and carrots.
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts and sunflower seeds.
• Whole grain: Oats, brown rice and quinoa.
• Other foods: Green tea, dark chocolate and spices as turmeric.

Common antioxidants include:

• Vitamins: Vitamins C and E, which are powerful antioxidants known to protect against cell damage.
• Minerals: Selenium and zinc, which plays a role in the body's own antioxidant systems.
• Flavonoids and carotenoids: Secondary herbal substances such as beta carotene and lutein, known for their anti -inflammatory properties.
• Enzymes: The body's own antioxidant systems include enzymes such as super oxidedismutase (SOD) and glutation peroxidase, which work to reduce oxidative damage.

Antioxidants and health benefits
Research suggests that regular intake of antioxidants can support the body's ability to handle oxidative stress, which can reduce the risk of a variety of chronic conditions, including:

• Heart disease: Antioxidants can help protect the blood vessels by reducing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
• Diabetes: Antioxidants can reduce oxidative stress associated with insulin sensitivity.
• Age -related diseases: Protects cells and tissues from damage that can accelerate the aging process.

The body's own defense system
The human body has thousands of redox systems at the molecular level that act as part of its natural repair and regeneration mechanisms. These systems protect cells from both oxidative and nitrosative stress by regulating the balance between free radicals and antioxidants.

Antioxidants in a holistic perspective
A balance between antioxidants and free radicals is crucial to the body's health. Although the body produces some antioxidants itself, it is necessary to supplement with antioxidant -rich foods and supplements to support the body's defense. The combination of diet and the body's own defense mechanisms help maintain cell integrity, protect against chronic diseases and promote general health and well -being.