Antioxidant

Definition

An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules, thereby protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. These free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases and aging. Antioxidants play a vital role in maintaining health by neutralizing free radicals and reducing their potential harm to the body.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Antioxidants can be found in various foods, especially fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, where they help prevent cellular damage.
2. Common antioxidants include vitamins C and E, selenium, and various phytochemicals such as flavonoids and carotenoids.
3. Antioxidants can help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders by combatting oxidative stress.
4. The body also produces its own antioxidants, such as glutathione, which play a crucial role in detoxifying harmful substances.
5. While antioxidants are beneficial, excessive supplementation may lead to adverse effects; obtaining them through a balanced diet is typically recommended.

Review Questions

• How do antioxidants protect the body from damage caused by free radicals?
  • Antioxidants protect the body by neutralizing free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress. By donating an electron to these free radicals, antioxidants stabilize them and prevent them from causing cellular damage. This process helps maintain cellular health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress.
• Discuss the sources of antioxidants in the diet and their role in preventing chronic diseases.
  • Antioxidants are primarily sourced from a variety of foods including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. These foods are rich in vitamins like C and E as well as phytochemicals such as flavonoids. Regular consumption of these antioxidant-rich foods is linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders because they help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
• Evaluate the potential risks associated with high doses of antioxidant supplements compared to obtaining antioxidants from food sources.
  • While antioxidants are essential for health, high doses from supplements can pose risks, including potential negative interactions with medications or increased oxidative stress in some cases. Studies suggest that obtaining antioxidants from food sources is more beneficial due to the synergistic effects of various compounds present in whole foods. This natural consumption not only provides a balanced intake but also includes other vital nutrients that support overall health without the risks associated with high-dose supplementation.

Related terms

Free Radicals: Highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons that can cause damage to cells and tissues through oxidative stress.

Oxidative Stress: An imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to potential damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids.

Vitamins C and E: Essential vitamins that function as antioxidants, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage.