Free radicals are unstable molecules that are naturally formed when you exercise and when your body converts food into energy. Your body can also encounter free radicals with environmental exposure to cigarette smoke, air pollution, sunlight, certain medications and treatments, and eating an unhealthy diet.
Free radicals can cause “oxidative stress,” a process that can trigger cell damage and is believed to play a role in a variety of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and eye diseases such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
The science
Antioxidant molecules have been shown to counteract oxidative stress in animal lab studies; however, whether they help in human beings is still to be studied. The National Institutes of Health has conducted numerous long-term studies, and the current results show high levels of antioxidant supplements have not been found to prevent disease. These studies continue with hope of new findings.
The hope
The body is used to free radical activity and makes molecules that disarm the damaging free radicals. We also extract free-radical fighters from food. Diets rich in green tea, vegetables and fruits are good sources of antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, selenium, beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin. The body absorbs nutrients from food and it would seem the best method to ingest antioxidants is by way of healthy food choices rich in the above antioxidants.
Antioxidant supplements
The verdict is still out”
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, “While it is true that the package of antioxidants, minerals, fiber and other substances found naturally in fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps prevent a variety of chronic diseases, it is unlikely that high doses of antioxidants can accomplish the same feat.”
