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What
DO antioxidants do?
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An antioxidant is a substance which gives up electrons easily
so it can neutralize oxidants, including free radicals |
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What are
Free
Radicals? |
When the antioxidant systems of the body are
overwhelmed, free radicals stabilize themselves by stealing
electrons from chemically stable compounds, often causing the
generation of more free radicals, which react further with other
compounds, causing yet more damage. These split second chain
reactions spread throughout the body, attacking vulnerable sites in
the cells and causing damage that can result in chronic
disease. |
| Antioxidants and the aging process |
Evidence is
growing that free radicals are an underlying cause of aging as the
biological markers of the process are the same as those caused by
free radical damage. As the mitochondria are where most of the
oxygen reactions in the cell occur, they may be the most
susceptible to damage by free radicals. It has been suggested that
the rate of damage, and therefore aging, in mitochondria may
determine how long a person lives.
Due to their effects on mitochondria and other elements such as
cell membranes and genetic material, free radicals may aggravate
the breakdown and sagging of tissues and deterioration of bodily
organs involved in the aging process.
Many diseases commonly
associated with aging, including cancer, heart disease and
psychological disorders, appear to be prevented.
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| High levels of antioxidants also increase the
effectiveness of the immune system, making older people less
susceptible to life-threatening infections. |
Experiments
with aging animals show that the effectiveness of the body's
antioxidant system decreases with age, possibly because of reduced
dietary intake, absorption or increased nutrient needs. A steady
supply of antioxidant vitamins and minerals should enhance the
body's natural defense mechanisms and improve the quality and
length of life. |
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