Antioxidants vs Free Radicals

You have probably heard the hype around antioxidants. It seems like everyone is talking about them or telling you that their products have antioxidants. You might be wondering, what are antioxidants and why do I need them? To understand why our body needs antioxidants, we first need to understand what free radicals are.

Free Radicals

Free radicals are atoms with an unpaired electron. Once a free radical is formed, they can start a chain reaction. The unpaired electrons search for a partner, stealing electrons from other atoms, therefore creating new free radicals. This process is called oxidation. Free radicals can cause damage to important cellular components such as DNA or the cell membrane through oxidation. This damage can cause cells to function improperly or die. Free radicals are natural by-products of biochemical reactions in the body however, they can also be caused by outside sources. Free radical-generating substances include:

• • Fried Foods

• • Alcohol

• • Tobacco Smoke

• • Pesticides

• Air Pollutants

Recent studies from the International Journal of Biomedical Science indicate that oxidative stress caused by free radicals may cause or accelerate nerve cell injury and lead to disease. Free radicals may play a role in heart disease, cancer, and other diseases. To prevent free radical damage the body has a defense system of antioxidants.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that can safely react and neutralize free radicals. The antioxidant donates an electron to the free radical, and once the free radical is paired, it is stable and is no longer damaging. There are many different substances that provide the body with antioxidants, with the most familiar ones being Vitamin C, Beta-Carotene, and Selenium. The body cannot produce these micronutrients, so they must be supplied through diet. Foods rich in antioxidants include:

• • Dark Green Veggies

• • Sweet Potatoes & Orange Veggies

• • Berries

• • Citrus Fruits

• Nuts

Having a diet rich in antioxidants is essential in fighting free radicals and oxidative stress in the body. Unfortunately, many of us don’t eat enough fruits and veggies to get the antioxidants and micronutrients that we need. Our Tohi supplement line provides you with the micronutrients you don’t always get but are essential for your body’s health and wellness. Learn more about our Tohi Supplement Line.