Chemicals known as free radicals are very reactive and have the potential to damage cells. Free radicals are created naturally in the body and are essential to many regular cellular functions. However, Free radicals can also destroy DNA, proteins, and cell membranes when they are present in large amounts, which can be harmful to the body. Free radical damage to cells, particularly DNA damage, may contribute to the development of cancer and other diseases. In order to stop free radicals from doing harm, antioxidants interact with them and neutralize them. "Free radical scavengers" is another term for antioxidants. And when it comes to preventing diseases like cancer, antioxidants are frequently recommended as essentials for optimum health. The substances, which can be found in foods and as supplements, can be quite effective in battling free radicals. However, they are not a panacea, and certain antioxidant sources are better than others. The body produces some of the antioxidants it uses to combat free radicals, they are called endogenous antioxidants. The body must, however, receive the remaining antioxidants it requires from exogenous (external) sources, primarily the diet. We often refer to these exogenous antioxidants as dietary antioxidants. Dietary antioxidants are abundant in grains, fruits, and vegetables. Some dietary antioxidants can be purchased as dietary supplements as well.
Antioxidants is said to help in the prevention of cancer. And free radicals are unstable atoms that can damage cellular DNA in the body, which is thought to have a role in the development of cancer. They circulate throughout the body and can lead to chronic inflammation. Our bodies produce free radicals when we breathe or exercise, and we are exposed to even more from environmental contaminants like cigarette smoke, air pollution, or the sun's UV rays. Antioxidants function by locating free radicals and counteracting their negative effects. The body's cells are kept healthier and less likely to develop cancer as a result. Antioxidants can also help your immune system work more effectively and reduce chronic inflammation, which is known to be the root cause of many health issues, including cardiovascular disease, by stabilizing these free radicals. Additionally, antioxidants may support DNA and cell membrane repair via different mechanisms. You can consume enough antioxidants through eating. To combat free radicals, the body produces some antioxidants on its own. However, a healthy diet can provide you with a lot more antioxidants. Top sources include colorful produce such as tomatoes, carrots, spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, strawberries, and citrus fruits. Antioxidants are also present in whole grains, nuts, seeds, and wheat germ. Carotenoids and other antioxidants, such the vitamins C and E, may aid in preventing free radical damage to cells. Phenols, lignans, flavonoids, and tannins are additional naturally occurring antioxidants. The ideal sources are foods that come from plants. Your best bet is to look for a wide selection, since different foods have various antioxidants.
NO I – Ayesa Gay A. Bejerano, RND
References:
What are antioxidants and how much of them should you be eating?
https://www.self.com/story/what-antioxidants-are-and-actually-do
Do antioxidants prevent cancer? 5 things to know
https://www.foxchase.org/blog/do-antioxidants-prevent-cancer-5-things-know
Antioxidants and Cancer prevention.
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/antioxidants-fact-sheet
