An explanation of antioxidants as well as how they perform their functions is elucidated in this article. Antioxidants refer to substances that counteract the damage produced by oxygen, including that generated by free radicals. They are well-known compounds, namely enzymes and vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene, that can mitigate the detrimental effects of oxidation. They are also often added to food items, viz. vegetable oils and prepared meals, in order to prevent or postpone degradation caused by air. They are synthetic or natural agents that may help prevent or postpone some forms of cell damage. Numerous foods, including fruits and vegetables, contain antioxidants. Additionally, they are available as dietary supplements. Some plant-based foods are believed to be antioxidant-dense. Botanical antioxidants are classified as phytonutrients since they are obtained from plants. Additionally, the human body produces some antioxidants, which are referred to as endogenous antioxidants. Exogenous antioxidants come from somewhere outside the body and protect the body from damage. Antioxidants are considered to assist our human systems in neutralising free radicals, which is considered to improve general wellness.
Free radicals are metabolic waste products created by cells when they consume food and react to their surroundings. Oxidative stress can occur if the body is unable to adequately handle and eliminate free radicals. This can have a detrimental effect on cells and bodily functions. Additionally, free radicals are referred to as reactive oxygen species (ROS). Internal influences, for instance, inflammation, can boost the formation of free radicals in the body, as can environmental factors including pollutants, harmful UV rays, and tobacco smoke. These actions and exposures have the potential to cause cell impairment. This may result in an increased release of free iron or copper ions, activation of phagocytes, a kind of white blood cell involved in infection defence, increased enzymes that produce free radicals, and disturbance of electron transportation chains. All of these factors can contribute to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress has been related to cardiovascular disease, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, stroke, respiratory illnesses, immunodeficiency, emphysema, Parkinson's disease, and a variety of other inflammatory or ischemic problems. At times, the phrase "free-radical scavengers" is used as an explanation of antioxidants.
